What key to press to select boot device is a common question among computer users, especially when they are trying to change their computer’s boot order or encountering boot issues. The process of selecting a boot device is essential for accessing the operating system or diagnostic tools, and it can vary depending on the computer’s manufacturer and operating system. In this article, we will discuss the most common keys to press to select a boot device and provide some tips for troubleshooting boot-related problems.
When you turn on your computer, the system will typically display a message indicating which key to press to enter the BIOS or UEFI setup. The most common keys for selecting a boot device are F1, F2, F10, F12, and ESC. However, the exact key can vary by manufacturer and model. To determine the correct key for your computer, you can check the manufacturer’s website or the computer’s manual.
Here is a brief overview of the most common keys and their corresponding functions:
- F1: This key is commonly used to access the BIOS or UEFI setup on most computers. In the setup, you can change the boot order and select the boot device.
- F2: Similar to F1, F2 is often used to enter the BIOS or UEFI setup. However, it may also be used for other purposes, such as system configuration or firmware updates.
- F10: Some computers use F10 to save changes made in the BIOS or UEFI setup and exit the setup.
- F12: This key is used to access the boot menu, which allows you to select a boot device without entering the BIOS or UEFI setup.
- ESC: ESC is another key that can be used to access the boot menu on some computers.
Once you have entered the BIOS or UEFI setup, you can navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Options” section to change the boot order and select the boot device. The boot order determines the sequence in which the computer searches for a bootable device. To change the boot order, you can use the arrow keys to move the desired device to the top of the list.
Here are some tips for troubleshooting boot-related problems:
- Make sure that the bootable device is properly connected and functioning.
- Check the boot device’s cables and connections for any damage or loose connections.
- Try booting from a different bootable device, such as a USB drive or CD/DVD, to see if the issue is with the primary boot device.
- Reset the BIOS or UEFI settings to their default values by clearing the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) or by using a jumper on the motherboard.
- Update the BIOS or UEFI firmware to the latest version provided by the manufacturer.
By following these tips and understanding the process of selecting a boot device, you can effectively troubleshoot boot-related issues and ensure that your computer boots up correctly.
