What key do I press to boot from USB? This is a common question among computer users, especially those who are new to the world of computing. Booting from a USB drive can be essential for various reasons, such as installing a new operating system, running diagnostics, or accessing a recovery environment. In this article, we will discuss the different keys to press on various computer models and operating systems to boot from a USB drive.
When you want to boot from a USB drive, the first step is to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a firmware interface that provides a set of low-level software routines that start the computer’s hardware and load the operating system. The key to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings varies depending on the manufacturer and model of your computer.
One of the most common keys to press to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings is the F2 key. When you turn on your computer, press the F2 key repeatedly until the BIOS or UEFI menu appears on your screen. Once you are in the menu, navigate to the boot options section. Here, you can select the USB drive as the primary boot device. Save your changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings. Your computer will then boot from the USB drive.
Other common keys to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings include F10, Del, Esc, and F12. These keys may be displayed on the screen during the boot process, so be sure to look out for them. If none of these keys work, consult your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for the specific key to use.
In addition to pressing the correct key to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings, you may also need to change the boot order. The boot order determines the sequence in which the computer searches for a bootable device. To change the boot order, navigate to the boot options section in the BIOS or UEFI menu. Move the USB drive to the top of the list by pressing the arrow keys and then saving your changes.
It’s important to note that some computers may require you to hold down a specific key during the boot process, such as Shift or Ctrl, to access the BIOS or UEFI settings. If this is the case, the instructions on your computer’s screen will indicate which key to hold down.
In conclusion, the key to press to boot from USB varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer and model. Familiarize yourself with the correct key and follow the steps to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings and change the boot order. By doing so, you can successfully boot from a USB drive and perform the necessary tasks.
