The BIOS, or the Basic Input/Output System, is software that is separate from the operating system. It is responsible for facilitating important hardware activities, such as hard disk, RAM and processor performance. Understanding its importance and knowing how to load your BIOS page and other BIOS-related tasks can be helpful.
Loading the BIOS Setup
Boot the computer. While in the POST (Power On Self Test), wait for the computer to show a message on what key to press to enter the "BIOS Setup." Some of the most used keys of BIOS manufacturers include F1, F2, F6, F10, Del and Esc. When prompted to press the key, press it at once before the computer boots the next drive in line.
Configuring the BIOS
If you think that you accidentally changed an important BIOS setting, revert it to its original setting. If you are not sure which setting was changed, exit the BIOS without saving the changes made. Changing the BIOS settings to default, if your BIOS has this option, is not recommended since your computer vendor may have changed the default settings before you even bought the computer. If you are trying to change the settings, and the BIOS password is enabled, you will be asked for the password before changes are made.
Boot Sequence
The boot sequence determines which drive the computer reads first. When installing a new operating system, you will need to reconfigure the BIOS so it reads the bootable disk first before reading any other drive in the computer. To do this, navigate to the "Boot" tab of the BIOS page and change the "Boot Sequence" or "Boot Priority" configuration so that the CD/DVD-ROM is first in line.
Updating the BIOS
Updating the BIOS involves downloading and installing a new version of the BIOS to make sure that it is performing to its optimum. You need to know which BIOS version you have installed and then download the most recent version from your motherboard manufacturer's website. To know which version is currently installed, load the BIOS setup and look for the "BIOS Version" in the "Main" tab. Take note of the BIOS version and check the motherboard manufacturer's website if there is a new version available. Make sure the new version you are about to install is specifically made for your BIOS. Download and install it to your computer.
