How to Access, Navigate, or Update the BIOS or UEFI
Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is firmware that is embedded on the computer's system board or motherboard. Modern Dell computers are shipped with Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). BIOS or UEFI acts as an interface between the computer's hardware and the operating system.
Watch this video to learn how to update the BIOS or UEFI on a Dell computer.
How to access the BIOS or UEFI
- Turn on the computer.
- At the Dell logo screen, press the F2 key several times until you enter the BIOS or System Setup.
- Alternatively, press the F12 key several times until you see the One Time Boot Menu and then select BIOS Setup or System Setup from the menu.
How to navigate the BIOS or UEFI
The BIOS or UEFI interface may vary on your Dell computer. To learn how to navigate the BIOS or UEFI, go to Dell.com/support/manuals, identify your Dell computer, and see the user guide.
Example of the BIOS or UEFI interface on an OptiPlex 7050.
Example of the BIOS or UEFI interface on a Precision 5550 mobile workstation.
How to update the BIOS or UEFI
Updating the BIOS or UEFI, also known as "flashing the BIOS", replaces the BIOS or UEFI firmware with the latest version. When updated successfully, a BIOS or UEFI update can fix or enhance the computer's performance or support for newly installed hardware.
Dell provides an easy-to-use executable (.exe) file to update the BIOS or UEFI to the latest version. To learn more, see Dell BIOS Updates for step-by-step instructions to download and install the latest BIOS or UEFI or watch this video to update the BIOS or UEFI.
Video Resources
Updating your BIOS is important for improving computer performance, security, and stability. Before updating,
temporarily suspend Bitlocker and ensure your laptop is connected to a reliable power source. To update, go to Dell Support, identify your system, and select the BIOS driver for your operating system. Check your current BIOS version and compare it to the latest version on the Dell website. If your BIOS version is more than two versions behind, update gradually without skipping any versions. Each installation should be done individually, and the system will restart each time. After downloading the latest BIOS version, double-click the setup file and click Update. If Bitlocker becomes enabled after each system restart, suspend it before the next BIOS installation. Contact Dell Cares on Twitter or check out.
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This guide provides steps for resetting BIOS to default settings on a Dell computer. It emphasizes the importa
nce of being cautious with changes, describes how to access BIOS, and details the process for restoring default settings and restarting the computer.
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Having trouble accessing the UEFI BIOS on your computer? In just a few clicks, Windows will restart and boot d
irectly to the BIOS.
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Other Resources
Reset or Clear BIOS Password
Learn how to reset or clear the passwords in BIOS or UEFI of your Dell computer. Reset or Clear BIOS Password
Recover the BIOS on a Dell Computer or Tablet
Learn how to use BIOS recovery on supported Dell computers or tablets. Recover the BIOS on a Dell Computer or Tablet
Support Videos
Visit our video library to find helpful videos. Support Videos