Booting from a USB in Windows 10 BIOS is a straightforward process that allows you to install or repair your operating system. To accomplish this, you’ll need to enter the BIOS setup of your computer, change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive, and restart your computer to boot from the USB.
How to Boot from USB Windows 10 BIOS
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to set your computer to boot from a USB drive using the BIOS settings in Windows 10. Following these steps will help you start your computer from a USB drive to install or repair Windows 10.
Step 1: Insert the USB Drive
Insert your bootable USB drive into one of your computer’s USB ports.
Make sure the USB drive is properly connected and is bootable. If the USB drive isn’t recognized, try another port or check if the drive is bootable.
Step 2: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer by clicking the Start menu, selecting the Power button, and then choosing Restart.
Restarting your computer will allow you to enter the BIOS setup, where you can change the boot order.
Step 3: Enter BIOS Setup
Press the BIOS key during your computer’s startup. Common keys include F2, F10, DEL, or ESC.
Different computers have different BIOS keys. If you’re unsure, check your computer’s manual or watch the screen during startup for a prompt.
Step 4: Navigate to the Boot Menu
Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Boot menu in the BIOS setup.
The Boot menu is where you can change the boot order. Look for a tab labeled "Boot" or similar.
Step 5: Change the Boot Order
Set the USB drive as the first boot device. You can usually do this by selecting the USB drive and using the + or – keys to move it to the top of the list.
Changing the boot order ensures that your computer will attempt to boot from the USB drive first.
Step 6: Save and Exit BIOS
Press the key that saves your changes and exits the BIOS setup. This is usually F10.
Saving and exiting the BIOS will restart your computer, and it should now boot from the USB drive.
After you complete these steps, your computer will start from the USB drive. You can now install or repair Windows 10 using the files on the USB.
Tips for Booting from USB Windows 10 BIOS
- Make sure your USB drive is bootable by using tools like Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool.
- If your computer doesn’t boot from the USB, double-check the boot order in the BIOS setup.
- Some computers have a one-time boot menu accessible by pressing a specific key (like F12) during startup, allowing you to select the USB drive without changing the BIOS settings.
- Ensure that Secure Boot is disabled in the BIOS if you have trouble booting from the USB.
- Keep your BIOS updated to ensure compatibility with newer USB drives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my USB drive is bootable?
A bootable USB drive typically contains an operating system installer or a repair tool. You can use tools like Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB.
What if my computer doesn’t recognize the USB drive?
First, try plugging the USB drive into a different port. If it still doesn’t recognize the drive, check if the drive is properly formatted and contains bootable files.
Can I boot from a USB drive without changing the BIOS settings?
Yes, some computers have a one-time boot menu accessible by pressing a specific key (like F12) during startup.
What should I do if my computer keeps booting to the hard drive instead of the USB?
Double-check the boot order in the BIOS setup to ensure the USB drive is set as the first boot device. Also, ensure that the USB drive is properly connected and bootable.
Do I need to disable Secure Boot to boot from a USB drive?
In some cases, yes. Secure Boot can prevent your computer from booting from untrusted sources, so you may need to disable it in the BIOS setup.
Summary
- Insert the USB drive.
- Restart your computer.
- Enter BIOS setup.
- Navigate to the Boot menu.
- Change the boot order.
- Save and exit BIOS.
Conclusion
Booting from a USB in Windows 10 BIOS is a handy skill to have, especially when you need to install or repair your operating system. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set your computer to boot from a USB drive. Remember to ensure your USB drive is bootable and properly connected. Don’t forget to check the boot order and update your BIOS if necessary.
Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned pro, knowing how to boot from a USB can save you a lot of time and hassle. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how easy it is to take control of your computer’s boot process. If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might benefit from it. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.