How To Reset Your BIOS

Did you recently upgrade your PC, change its components, or test a setting in the BIOS that now stops it from power up all the way? Here's how to reset your BIOS.

Step 1  

Power down your PC.

Step 2  

Locate a rocker-style switch at the back of your PC (if applicable), and switch it from the on position (I) to the off position (O).

Step 3  

Find the 3-pin jumper near the battery, typically labeled "clear cmos" or "reset bios".

Step 4  

Remove the jumper from the default position (typically connecting the 1st and 2nd pins).

Step 5  

Replace the jumper to connect the 2nd and 3rd pins.

Step 6  

Push the power button on the front of your PC once.

Step 7  

Wait a minute.

Step 8  

Return the jumper to its default position, connecting the 1st and 2nd pins.

Step 9  

Move the rocker-style switch at the back of your PC (if applicable), to the on (I) position.

Step 10  

Power on your PC with its front power button.

If it doesn't work go to alternate options

Alternate Method 1

1. Locate a rocker-style switch at the back of your PC (if applicable), and switch it from the on position (I) to the off position (O).
2. Remove the CMOS battery. This should be a regular 3V, round, flat watch battery.
3. Wait at least 5 minutes.
4. Reinsert the CMOS battery.
5. Move the rocker-style switch at the back of your PC (if applicable), to the on (I) position.
6. Power on your PC with its front power button.

Alternate Method 2

1. Turn on your computer and press the key on your keyboard to enter the BIOS. This is typically the Del (delete) key. Pre-built systems from major manufacturers may use a function key such as F1, F2, or F10.
2. Go to the last tab or page of your BIOS.
3. Select an option similar to "restore factory settings".
4. Save your changes and confirm your selection if necessary. This will often be combined with the process of exiting a BIOS. Some BIOS types may have this as a separate option such as "F10: Save Changes".

Tips

• Don't forget to configure your BIOS after this process. Without any custom configuration, most system should still function adequately with their default settings.

Warnings

• If you don't know how to configure your BIOS, don't mess with it. You can damage your PC.
• Make sure your computer is unplugged before removing the case. Ground yourself before handling any components inside a PC to reduce the risk of electrostatic discharge from damaging your PC.