Step-by-Step Guide: How to Enter BIOS on Surface Laptop 3

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the fundamental software that manages your Surface Laptop 3’s hardware. It’s the first program that runs when you turn on your device, and it’s crucial for tasks like booting your operating system, configuring hardware settings, and performing diagnostics. But how do you access this essential part of your Surface Laptop 3? This guide will walk you through the process of entering BIOS on your Surface Laptop 3, empowering you to delve into the heart of your device.

Why Enter BIOS on Your Surface Laptop 3?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand why you might need to access BIOS on your Surface Laptop 3. Here are some common reasons:

• Change Boot Order: If you’re experiencing issues booting your Surface Laptop 3, you might need to adjust the boot order to prioritize a specific drive.
• Enable or Disable Features: BIOS allows you to enable or disable hardware features like Secure Boot, virtualization, or legacy support.
• Update BIOS: Updating your BIOS can enhance performance, fix bugs, and improve security.
• Troubleshoot Hardware Issues: BIOS can help diagnose hardware problems by providing information about your system’s components.

Accessing BIOS on Your Surface Laptop 3: The Steps

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – how to enter BIOS on your Surface Laptop 3. The process is straightforward, but it requires a specific key combination during startup. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Power Off Your Surface Laptop 3: Ensure your device is completely shut down.
2. Press and Hold the Volume Up Button: While holding the Volume Up button, press and release the power button.
3. Release the Volume Up Button: Once the Surface logo appears, release the Volume Up button.
4. The BIOS Screen: You should now see the BIOS screen, allowing you to navigate and adjust settings.

Navigating the BIOS Interface

The BIOS interface might seem intimidating at first, but it’s relatively user-friendly. Typically, you’ll use the arrow keys to move between menus and options. Here’s a breakdown of common BIOS sections:

• Main: Displays general system information, including the model, serial number, and BIOS version.
• Boot: Allows you to configure boot order, select boot devices, and enable or disable specific boot options.
• Advanced: Contains more advanced settings related to hardware configurations, including CPU settings, memory options, and security features.
• Security: Provides options for enabling or disabling security features like Secure Boot, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and password protection.
• Exit: Allows you to save changes and exit BIOS or discard changes and exit.

Understanding the BIOS Settings

While navigating the BIOS, you’ll encounter various settings. Here’s a quick overview of some common ones:

• Secure Boot: This feature helps protect your system from malicious software by ensuring that only trusted operating systems can boot.
• UEFI Boot: Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is a modern boot standard that offers faster boot times and improved security compared to legacy BIOS.
• Virtualization Technology: Enables virtualization software, allowing you to run multiple operating systems concurrently on your Surface Laptop 3.
• Legacy Support: Enables compatibility with older hardware and operating systems that don’t support UEFI booting.

Saving Your Changes and Exiting BIOS

Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments in the BIOS, it’s crucial to save your changes. Typically, you’ll find a “Save & Exit” option in the Exit menu. Select this option to apply your changes and reboot your Surface Laptop 3.

Troubleshooting BIOS Access Issues

While the process of entering BIOS is generally straightforward, you might encounter some issues. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Try Different Key Combinations: If the Volume Up + Power button combination isn’t working, try other key combinations like the Volume Down + Power button.
• Check Your Keyboard: Ensure your keyboard is connected properly and functioning correctly.
• Update BIOS: An outdated BIOS version might cause compatibility issues. Check for BIOS updates on the Microsoft website.
• Contact Microsoft Support: If you’re still unable to access BIOS, reach out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

The End of the Journey: A Final Thought

Understanding how to enter BIOS on your Surface Laptop 3 empowers you to take control of your device’s hardware settings. Whether you need to change the boot order, enable virtualization, or troubleshoot hardware issues, BIOS access provides you with the tools you need. Remember to approach BIOS settings with caution, as incorrect configurations can affect your system’s functionality.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What happens if I don’t save my changes before exiting BIOS?
If you don’t save your changes before exiting BIOS, they will be discarded, and your Surface Laptop 3 will revert to its previous settings.
2. Can I change my Surface Laptop 3’s password in BIOS?
No, you cannot change your Surface Laptop 3’s password directly in BIOS. You need to use the Windows operating system to manage your account and passwords.
3. Is it safe to update my BIOS?
Updating your BIOS is generally safe, but it’s essential to download the update from a trusted source, such as the Microsoft website. Ensure you have a backup of your data before proceeding with a BIOS update.
4. What if I’m unable to access BIOS on my Surface Laptop 3?
If you’re unable to access BIOS, try different key combinations, check your keyboard, and update your BIOS. If these solutions don’t work, contact Microsoft support for assistance.