The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), or more commonly UEFI on modern Lenovo computers, is firmware that initializes your hardware before Windows 11 starts. Accessing the BIOS allows you to configure hardware settings that are not available within Windows, such as changing the boot order, enabling virtualization, configuring security features, updating firmware, or troubleshooting hardware issues.
Lenovo provides several ways to enter the BIOS depending on your laptop or desktop model. The traditional method involves pressing a function key during startup, while Windows 11 also includes an Advanced Startup option that lets you access the BIOS without relying on keyboard shortcuts. Many Lenovo laptops even include a dedicated Novo Button that opens a special startup menu.
This guide explains every reliable method to enter the BIOS on a Lenovo computer running Windows 11.
What Is BIOS?
BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is firmware stored on the motherboard that performs a hardware check each time your computer starts. It detects components such as the processor, memory, storage drives, keyboard, and display before loading Windows.
Most modern Lenovo computers use UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) instead of the traditional BIOS. UEFI offers several improvements, including faster startup times, support for larger storage drives, enhanced security through Secure Boot, and a modern graphical interface. Although the technology has evolved, the process of accessing these firmware settings is still commonly referred to as “entering the BIOS.”
Inside the BIOS, you can:
- Change the boot order
- Enable or disable Secure Boot
- Enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V virtualization
- Configure storage settings
- View hardware information
- Set BIOS passwords
- Restore default firmware settings
- Configure power management options
Things to Do Before Entering BIOS
Before restarting your computer, take a few precautions.
First, save all open files because your PC will restart during the process.
If you’re using a Lenovo laptop, connect the charger. Although entering BIOS itself doesn’t consume much power, you don’t want the laptop shutting down unexpectedly while changing settings or performing a BIOS update.
If you plan to modify settings, it’s also a good idea to note the original values. This makes it easier to restore the previous configuration if something doesn’t work as expected.
Method 1: Press the BIOS Key During Startup
This is the fastest and most commonly used method.
- Shut down your Lenovo computer completely.
- Wait a few seconds.
- Press the Power button.
- Immediately start pressing the BIOS key repeatedly.
Depending on your Lenovo model, the BIOS key may be:
- F1
- F2
- Fn + F1
- Fn + F2
Continue pressing the key until the BIOS or UEFI setup screen appears.
On many ThinkPad models, F1 is the standard BIOS key, while several IdeaPad and Legion laptops commonly use F2.
If Windows starts normally, restart the computer and try pressing the key earlier.
Method 2: Use the Lenovo Novo Button
Many Lenovo laptops include a dedicated Novo Button, which provides access to startup options even if the keyboard shortcuts don’t work.
The Novo Button is usually located:
- Next to the power button
- Near the charging port
- On the left or right edge of the laptop
- Inside a small pinhole marked with a curved arrow
To use it:
- Turn off the laptop.
- Insert a paperclip or SIM eject tool into the Novo Button hole.
- Press the button gently.
- Wait for the Novo Button Menu.
- Select BIOS Setup.
- Press Enter.
Your computer will immediately open the BIOS.
This is one of the most reliable methods available on supported Lenovo laptops.
Method 3: Enter BIOS Through Windows 11 Settings
If your computer boots normally, Windows 11 provides an easy way to access BIOS without pressing any function keys.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Select System.
- Click Recovery.
- Find Advanced startup.
- Click Restart now.
- Confirm the restart.
After restarting, you’ll see the Windows Recovery Environment.
Choose the following options:
- Troubleshoot
- Advanced options
- UEFI Firmware Settings
- Restart
Your Lenovo computer will reboot directly into the BIOS interface.
This method is especially useful if your laptop starts too quickly for keyboard shortcuts to register.
Method 4: Use Shift + Restart
Another simple way to access BIOS is through the Shift + Restart shortcut.
- Open the Start menu.
- Click the Power button.
- Hold the Shift key.
- Click Restart while continuing to hold Shift.
After the computer restarts, select:
- Troubleshoot
- Advanced options
- UEFI Firmware Settings
- Restart
Windows will automatically open the BIOS after the restart.
Method 5: Use Command Prompt
Advanced users can reboot directly into the firmware interface using a built-in Windows command.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Enter the following command:
shutdown /r /fw /t 0- Press Enter.
Your computer will restart immediately and attempt to launch the BIOS or UEFI firmware screen.
This method works only on UEFI-based systems.
Method 6: Access BIOS When Windows Won’t Boot
If Windows is unable to start, you can still access the BIOS.
Turn on the computer and immediately press the BIOS key repeatedly.
If this doesn’t work, use the Novo Button if your laptop has one.
You can also trigger Windows Recovery by interrupting the startup process three consecutive times.
To do this:
- Turn on the PC.
- As soon as Windows starts loading, hold the Power button until the PC turns off.
- Repeat this process three times.
Windows will launch Automatic Repair.
Select:
- Advanced options
- Troubleshoot
- Advanced options
- UEFI Firmware Settings
- Restart
Method 7: Disable Fast Startup
Windows Fast Startup helps your PC boot more quickly, but it can sometimes prevent BIOS keys from working correctly.
To disable it:
- Open Control Panel.
- Select Hardware and Sound.
- Open Power Options.
- Click Choose what the power buttons do.
- Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
- Click Save changes.
Now shut down the computer and try entering BIOS again using the function key.
How to Navigate Lenovo BIOS
Most modern Lenovo BIOS interfaces support both keyboard and mouse navigation.
Common keyboard shortcuts include:
- Arrow keys to move between options
- Enter to select an item
- Esc to return to the previous menu
- Tab to switch sections
- F9 to load default settings (varies by model)
- F10 to save changes and exit
The available shortcuts are usually displayed at the bottom or side of the BIOS screen.
Common BIOS Settings
Boot Order
The Boot section determines which storage device the computer checks first for an operating system.
You can prioritize:
- Internal SSD
- USB flash drive
- External hard drive
- DVD drive
- Network boot
Changing the boot order is useful when installing Windows from a USB drive.
Secure Boot
Secure Boot protects the startup process by allowing only trusted software to load during boot.
It should remain enabled unless you need to install an operating system or utility that requires it to be disabled.
Virtualization Technology
Virtualization is required for software such as:
- Hyper-V
- VMware Workstation
- Oracle VirtualBox
- Windows Subsystem for Android
- Android Studio Emulator
If these programs report that virtualization is disabled, you can enable it from the BIOS.
TPM
The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) provides hardware-based security and encryption support.
Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 on supported hardware.
Avoid disabling TPM if your drive uses BitLocker encryption.
How to Save Changes
After making any changes:
- Press F10.
- Select Yes when prompted.
- Wait for the computer to restart.
Your new settings will take effect after the reboot.
If you don’t want to save the changes, choose Exit Without Saving instead.
How to Reset BIOS to Default Settings
If you’ve changed settings that cause problems, you can restore the factory defaults.
- Enter BIOS.
- Open the Exit tab.
- Choose Load Setup Defaults or Load Optimized Defaults.
- Save the changes and restart the computer.
This restores the BIOS configuration without affecting your personal files or Windows installation.
Troubleshooting BIOS Access Problems
BIOS Key Doesn’t Work
If pressing F1 or F2 doesn’t open the BIOS:
- Shut down instead of restarting.
- Begin pressing the key immediately after turning on the computer.
- Try Fn + F1 or Fn + F2.
- Disable Fast Startup.
- Use the Novo Button.
- Try another keyboard if you’re using a desktop.
UEFI Firmware Settings Is Missing
If the UEFI Firmware Settings option isn’t available in Windows Recovery:
- Your PC may be using Legacy BIOS mode.
- The firmware may not support this feature.
- BIOS access may only be possible using the startup key or Novo Button.
Keyboard Doesn’t Respond
Wireless keyboards may not initialize early enough during startup.
If possible:
- Use a wired USB keyboard.
- Connect the keyboard directly to the motherboard USB ports.
- Avoid USB hubs while entering BIOS.
Computer Boots Too Fast
Some Lenovo systems start Windows so quickly that it’s difficult to press the BIOS key in time.
Using Windows Advanced Startup or the Novo Button is usually the easiest solution.
Tips for Using BIOS Safely
- Change settings only if you understand their purpose.
- Record the original configuration before making changes.
- Keep your laptop connected to power while updating BIOS.
- Avoid interrupting firmware updates.
- Leave Secure Boot enabled unless a specific task requires disabling it.
- Back up important files before making major firmware changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which key opens BIOS on Lenovo?
Most Lenovo computers use F1 or F2, while some models require Fn + F1 or Fn + F2. Many Lenovo laptops also include the Novo Button for accessing BIOS.
Can I enter BIOS without restarting Windows?
No. BIOS runs before Windows starts, so the computer must restart. However, Windows 11 lets you reboot directly into BIOS using the Advanced Startup feature.
Is BIOS different from UEFI?
Yes. UEFI is the modern replacement for the traditional BIOS. It offers better security, faster boot times, and support for newer hardware, but many users still refer to it as BIOS.
Can changing BIOS settings damage my computer?
Incorrect settings usually won’t damage the hardware, but they can prevent Windows from booting properly. If this happens, you can usually restore the default BIOS settings.
Conclusion
Entering the BIOS on a Lenovo computer running Windows 11 is a straightforward process once you know the available methods. Whether you use the traditional F1 or F2 startup keys, the convenient Novo Button, or Windows 11’s Advanced Startup feature, each method provides access to your computer’s firmware settings.
The BIOS is a powerful tool that lets you configure hardware options, adjust boot settings, enable virtualization, manage security features, and troubleshoot startup issues. While these settings can significantly improve functionality for certain tasks, they should always be modified carefully. If you’re unsure about a particular option, it’s best to leave it unchanged or research its purpose before making adjustments.
By following the methods and safety tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently access and navigate the BIOS on your Lenovo Windows 11 PC whenever you need to install a new operating system, update firmware, or customize your computer’s hardware settings.
