What to Do If BIOS Opens When You Start Your Computer

Many users encounter a situation where, upon turning on their computer or laptop, the BIOS menu appears instead of the operating system booting up as usual. This issue can arise due to several reasons. In this article, we’ll look at the main causes and provide solutions to help restore normal system startup.

Main Reasons Why BIOS Opens at Startup

There are several potential reasons why the BIOS may automatically load at startup:

  • Missing boot disk or hard drive issues. BIOS may not detect the operating system on your hard drive or SSD, which could be due to a malfunction or the absence of a bootable device.
  • Reset BIOS settings. If BIOS settings were reset (for example, due to a depleted CMOS battery), the boot order may change, causing BIOS to appear automatically.
  • Hardware changes. Installing a new hard drive, SSD, or memory can sometimes cause BIOS to open to configure the system for the new hardware.
  • Incorrect boot priority settings. If the boot priority was altered, the system might try to boot from a different drive than the one with the operating system.

How to Fix the Issue

To resolve this problem, try the following steps:

1. Check the Hard Drive or SSD Connection

If BIOS isn’t detecting your drive, it may open automatically. Open your computer case (if possible) and check the power and data cables for your hard drive or SSD. Ensure all connections are securely attached.

2. Set the Correct Boot Priority in BIOS

In BIOS, go to the Boot or Boot Order section and check the boot order. Make sure your primary drive with the operating system is set as the first option. After adjusting the settings, save them by pressing F10, and restart your computer.

3. Check the CMOS Battery

The CMOS battery keeps your BIOS settings saved. If it’s low on power, the settings may reset, causing the BIOS to open. Replace the battery if necessary.

4. Check the Hard Drive or SSD for Errors

Sometimes, issues with the hard drive or SSD can prevent BIOS from detecting the operating system. Connect the drive to another computer and check it for errors using utilities like CHKDSK or CrystalDiskInfo.