Discover the Hidden Features of Your Surface Pro: How to Access the BIOS Like a Pro

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the fundamental software that controls your Surface Pro‘s hardware during startup. Accessing the BIOS can be crucial for various reasons, such as:

• Troubleshooting boot issues: If your Surface Pro is experiencing problems starting up, entering the BIOS can help you diagnose and resolve the issue.
• Changing boot order: You can prioritize booting from a specific device, like a USB drive, for installing a new operating system or recovering data.
• Enabling or disabling hardware features: The BIOS allows you to configure settings like Secure Boot, which can enhance security, or adjust the power management options.
• Updating the BIOS: Updating the BIOS can improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance compatibility with newer hardware.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different methods of accessing the Surface Pro BIOS, providing you with the knowledge and steps to navigate this essential part of your device.

Method 1: Using the Power Button and Volume Keys

This is the most common and straightforward method to access the BIOS on a Surface Pro. Here’s how to do it:
1. Power off your Surface Pro completely. Ensure that the device is fully shut down and not in sleep mode.
2. Press and hold the volume up key. This is the key with the plus (+) symbol.
3. While holding the volume up key, press and release the power button. You should see the Surface logo appear on the screen.
4. Continue holding the volume up key until the Surface Pro logo disappears and you see the BIOS screen. This might take a few seconds.
Once you’re in the BIOS, you can use the arrow keys to navigate between options and the Enter key to select them.

Method 2: Using the UEFI Firmware Settings

This method is available on newer Surface Pro models and requires you to access the UEFI firmware settings. Here’s how:
1. Navigate to the Windows Settings app. You can do this by pressing the Windows key ++ I on your keyboard.
2. Go to “Update & Security” and then “Recovery.”
3. Under “Advanced startup,” click “Restart now.”
4. Select “Troubleshoot” from the options that appear.
5. Choose “Advanced options” and then “UEFI Firmware Settings.”
6. Click “Restart” to enter the BIOS.

Method 3: Using the Command Prompt

If you’re comfortable using the Command Prompt, you can access the BIOS using this method:
1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by searching for “cmd” in the Windows search bar, right-clicking on the result, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
2. Type “shutdown /r /o /t 0” and press Enter. This command will restart your Surface Pro and take you to the Advanced Startup options.
3. Follow steps 4-6 from Method 2 to access the BIOS.

Understanding the BIOS Menu

The BIOS menu can vary slightly depending on your Surface Pro model. However, you’ll generally find the following sections:

• Main: This section displays basic system information like the processor, memory, and boot devices.
• Boot: This section allows you to change the boot order, select the default boot device, and enable or disable specific boot options.
• Advanced: This section contains advanced settings like Secure Boot, virtualization, and power management options.
• Security: This section allows you to manage security settings, such as passwords and device encryption.
• Save & Exit: This section allows you to save any changes you’ve made and exit the BIOS.

Navigating the BIOS Menu

Once you’re in the BIOS, you can use the arrow keys to navigate between the different sections and options. The Enter key will select an option, and the Esc key will usually return to the previous menu.
Important Notes:

• Some specific BIOS settings might be locked by default. You might need to consult your Surface Pro’s user manual or contact Microsoft support for assistance.
• Always be careful when making changes in the BIOS. Incorrect settings can lead to boot problems or other issues. If you’re unsure about a setting, it’s best to leave it as it is.

Exiting the BIOS

Once you’ve made your desired changes, you can exit the BIOS by selecting the “Save & Exit” option. This will usually save your changes and restart your Surface Pro. If you don’t want to save your changes, you can select the “Exit Without Saving” option.

BIOS Recovery: What to Do if You’re Locked Out

If you’re unable to access the BIOS due to a password or other issues, you might need to perform a BIOS recovery. This process involves flashing the BIOS with a new version, which can potentially resolve the issue. However, this is a complex procedure that should only be attempted by experienced users.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced BIOS Tips

• Secure Boot: This feature helps to prevent unauthorized software from loading during startup. It can enhance the security of your Surface Pro, but it can also sometimes cause compatibility issues with certain software or hardware.
• UEFI Boot: This is a newer boot standard that offers faster boot times and improved security. If your Surface Pro supports UEFI boot, you can enable it in the BIOS.
• Virtualization Technology: This feature allows your Surface Pro to run virtual machines, which can be useful for testing software or running multiple operating systems.

Wrapping Up: Mastering Your Surface Pro’s BIOS

Accessing and understanding the BIOS on your Surface Pro can empower you to troubleshoot issues, manage boot settings, and enhance the overall performance and security of your device. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the BIOS menu and make informed decisions about your Surface Pro’s configuration.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I access the BIOS on all Surface Pro models?
A: Yes, you can access the BIOS on most Surface Pro models. However, the specific method might vary depending on the model and operating system version.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake in the BIOS?
A: Incorrect BIOS settings can lead to boot problems or other issues. If you’re unsure about a setting, it’s best to leave it as it is. If you do make a mistake, you can usually reset the BIOS to its default settings by using the “Load Defaults” option.
Q: Can I update the BIOS on my Surface Pro?
A: Yes, you can update the BIOS on your Surface Pro. Microsoft provides BIOS updates for its Surface devices. You can download and install the latest BIOS update from the Microsoft website.
Q: What are the risks of accessing the BIOS?
A: Accessing the BIOS is generally safe, but incorrect settings can lead to boot problems or other issues. It’s important to be cautious and only make changes that you understand.
Q: What if I forget my BIOS password?
A: If you forget your BIOS password, you might need to reset it. This can be done by using a hardware reset method or by contacting Microsoft support for assistance.