Boot directly into UEFI under Windows 11 – here’s how

The UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a computer's modern firmware interface, replacing the older BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). Accessing the UEFI may be necessary to change the boot order, configure Secure Boot, or enable virtualization features. This article shows how to boot directly into the UEFI in Windows 11—both via the graphical user interface and the command line. 

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What are UEFI, BIOS and Legacy Mode?

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface)

UEFI is the modern standard for firmware interfaces. It offers a graphical user interface, supports larger hard drives, and enables faster boot times. It also offers advanced security features such as Secure Boot.

BIOS (Basic Input / Output System)

BIOS is the predecessor of UEFI. It is purely text-based, offers limited features, and only supports hard drives up to 2 TB.

Legacy mode

In legacy mode, BIOS functionality is emulated on a UEFI system to keep older hardware or operating systems compatible.

When is access to the UEFI necessary?

• Change boot order: For example, to boot from a USB stick or an external hard drive.
• Enable/disable Secure Boot: Required for certain operating system installations or software.
• Enable virtualization features (VT-x/AMD-V): Required for virtualization software such as Hyper-V or VirtualBox.
• Configure TPM (Trusted Platform Module): Important for security features and Windows 11 requirements.
• System diagnostics or troubleshooting startup problems.
  
  

Method 1: Via Windows Settings

1. Open Settings:

Via the start menu “Settings“ or Windows + I to press.

2. Navigate to “System” > “Recovery”:

In the left menu “System“, then click “Restoration“Click.

3. Advanced Start:

Under "Extended start" the option "Restart now" choose.

4. After the restart:

Select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced Options" > "UEFI Firmware Settings." Then click "Restart."

5. UEFI menu:

After the restart, the UEFI menu opens automatically.

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Method 2: Via the command line (PowerShell or Command Prompt)

1. Open PowerShell or Command Prompt as administrator:

Right-click on the Start menu “Windows Terminal (administrator)"Or"Prompt (administrator)" open.

2. Enter the following command and press Enter:

shutdown /r /fw /t 0

This command will reboot and directly open the UEFI firmware menu.

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Method 3: Direct access via keyboard shortcut at system startup

In addition to the software-based methods, you can also enter the UEFI or BIOS menu directly when turning on the device. This is done by pressing a specific key immediately after the computer starts up.

Important:
It's often challenging to time the key precisely. The key should be pressed several times immediately after turning on the device—before the operating system begins to load.

Manufacturer overview with typical keyboard shortcuts:

Manufacturers	BIOS/UEFI button	Boot menu button	Features
Acer	F2	F12	On some models, F12 must be enabled in the BIOS.
ASUS	F2	I	On older models the Delete key is also possible.
Dell	F2	F12	F12 opens one-time boot menu.
HP	Esc, then F10	Esc, then F9	Esc opens the startup menu.
Lenovo	F1 or F2	F12	For ThinkPads: Enter, then F1 or NOVO key.
Microsoft Surface	Hold the volume up button	-	Hold down when turning on.
MSI	Del	F11	Delete for BIOS; F11 for boot menu.
Samsung	F2	Esc or F12	Varies depending on the model.
Toshiba	F2 or Esc	F12	Esc, then F1 for BIOS.
Sony (Vaio)	F2 or Assist	F11	Press the Assist button when the device is turned off.
Fujitsu	F2	F12	-
Medion	F2	F10	-
Packard Bell	F2	F8	-
ASRock	F2 or Delete	F11	-
Gigabyte	Del	F12	-
Intel NUC	F2	F10	-

Note:
The exact key combination may vary depending on the model and BIOS version. It's recommended to look for instructions such as "Press [key] to enter Setup" during system startup or consult the manufacturer's manual.

 

Potential risks when accessing the UEFI

• Wrong settings: Changes to critical parameters may cause the system to fail to start.
• Disabling security features: Disabling Secure Boot or TPM may compromise system security.
• Data loss: Improper changes may cause data loss or instability.

Tip: Changes to the UEFI should only be made if their effects are known. If necessary, consult the motherboard documentation or contact IT support.

Conclusion

Accessing the UEFI in Windows 11 is possible via both the graphical interface and the command line. Both methods allow for targeted customization of startup and security settings. However, it is recommended to make changes carefully to avoid system issues.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How can you determine whether a system is running in UEFI or Legacy mode?

Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and then enter. Under "BIOS Mode," you'll see "UEFI" or "Legacy."

Can Secure Boot be enabled via the command line?

No, this is only possible via the UEFI menu.

What to do if the UEFI is incorrectly configured?

The UEFI menu usually offers the option to reset to factory settings or discard changes.

 

mh (27.05.2025/XNUMX/XNUMX)
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© Copyright Michael Hille

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