√ How to Enter BIOS on a Windows PC Without a Keyboard

Entering the BIOS or UEFI settings on a Windows PC typically requires pressing a key like F2, DEL, or F12 during startup. But what if your keyboard isn’t working? Fortunately, Windows offers built-in tools like shutdown /s /fw to reboot into BIOS seamlessly. This guide covers keyboard-free BIOS access, advanced shutdown commands, and troubleshooting tips for 2025.

Why Enter BIOS Without a Keyboard?

Modern PCs with UEFI firmware allow BIOS access via software, eliminating the need for keystrokes. Common scenarios include:

Keyboard malfunction or wireless connectivity issues.
Remote troubleshooting (e.g., via RDP).
Accessing advanced boot options for hardware changes.

Method 1: Using Windows Settings (UEFI Firmware)

Open Settings (Win + I) → Update & Security → Recovery.
Under Advanced Startup, click Restart Now.
After reboot, navigate to Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → UEFI Firmware Settings → Restart.

Method 2: shutdown /r /fw Command

Run this in Command Prompt (Admin) to force a BIOS reboot:

shutdown /r /fw /t 0

Command	Description
`/r`	Restarts the PC
`/fw`	Boots to firmware (BIOS/UEFI)
`/t 0`	Executes immediately

Alternative: Physical Buttons

Some laptops have dedicated BIOS buttons:

Lenovo: Novo Button (small pinhole).
Dell/HP: Power + Volume Up combo.
ASUS: Hold Power Button for 5 seconds.

Advanced shutdown Commands

Command	Function
`shutdown /s /fw`	Shuts down and boots to BIOS next startup
`shutdown /a`	Cancels pending shutdown
`Restart-Computer -BootToUEFI`	PowerShell equivalent

Conclusions

For UEFI-based systems, shutdown /fw is the fastest way to access BIOS without a keyboard. Legacy BIOS users may need hardware alternatives. Always check OEM-specific methods for Dell, HP, or Lenovo devices.

FAQs: Entering BIOS Without a Keyboard

Does shutdown /fw work on all PCs?

No, it requires UEFI firmware. Legacy BIOS systems need traditional keystrokes.

What if my PC ignores /fw and boots normally?

Disable Fast Startup in Power Options or use Windows Settings (Method 1).

Can I use PowerShell instead of Command Prompt?

Yes: Restart-Computer -Force -BootToUEFI (Admin rights required).

How do I know if my PC uses UEFI?

Run msinfo32 → Check BIOS Mode (UEFI or Legacy).

Are there risks to forcing BIOS access?

No, but avoid changing settings unless necessary to prevent boot issues.

Why does my laptop lack a BIOS button?

Most consumer laptops rely on keystrokes (e.g., F2 for Dell, ESC for HP).

Can I use a virtual keyboard for BIOS?

No, BIOS doesn’t support software-based input. Use hardware alternatives.

Does /fw work on Windows 10 and 11?

Yes, but Windows 11 requires Secure Boot compatibility.

What’s the difference between BIOS and UEFI?

UEFI is newer, supports larger drives, and offers GUI settings. BIOS is text-based.

How do I reset BIOS if settings are misconfigured?

Remove the CMOS battery or use the motherboard’s reset jumper.