Master Your Surface Pro: Essential Guide on How to Boot to BIOS

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the fundamental software that controls your Surface Pro’s hardware during startup. Accessing the BIOS is crucial for various tasks, such as changing boot order, configuring storage settings, and even troubleshooting hardware issues. However, the process of booting into the BIOS on a Surface Pro can be a bit different compared to traditional laptops. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to successfully boot your Surface Pro into the BIOS, along with essential tips and troubleshooting advice.

Understanding the Importance of BIOS Access

Before diving into the steps, let’s understand why accessing the BIOS on your Surface Pro is essential:

• Changing Boot Order: If you’re installing a new operating system or troubleshooting boot issues, you might need to change the boot order to prioritize a USB drive or an internal hard drive.
• Enabling/Disabling Hardware: You can enable or disable specific hardware components like the internal touchpad, keyboard, or even the Wi-Fi adapter from the BIOS.
• Configuring Storage Settings: The BIOS allows you to manage your storage drives, including setting up RAID configurations and enabling or disabling secure boot features.
• Troubleshooting Hardware Issues: If you’re facing hardware-related problems, the BIOS provides valuable information about your system’s components, helping you diagnose the issue.

Method 1: Using the Power Button and Volume Down Key Combination

This is the most common and straightforward method for accessing the BIOS on most Surface Pro models.
1. Power Off Your Surface Pro: Ensure your Surface Pro is completely shut down.
2. Press and Hold the Power Button: Press and hold the power button on your Surface Pro.
3. Press and Hold the Volume Down Key: While holding the power button, press and hold the volume down key.
4. Release the Power Button: After a few seconds, release the power button while continuing to hold the volume down key.
5. Release the Volume Down Key: Once the Surface Pro logo appears on the screen, release the volume down key. You should now be in the BIOS setup screen.

Method 2: Using the UEFI Firmware Settings Option in Windows 10

If the previous method doesn‘t work, you can try accessing the BIOS through the Windows 10 settings. This method is available on newer Surface Pro models.
1. Open Windows Settings: Go to “Start” and click on the “Settings” icon (gear icon).
2. Navigate to Update & Security: Click on “Update & Security.”
3. Select Recovery: In the left-hand menu, choose “Recovery.”
4. Click on “Restart Now” under Advanced Startup: This will restart your Surface Pro into the Recovery Environment.
5. Choose Troubleshoot: In the Recovery Environment, select “Troubleshoot.”
6. Select Advanced Options: Click on “Advanced Options.”
7. Choose UEFI Firmware Settings: Select “UEFI Firmware Settings” and click on “Restart.”
8. Access BIOS: Your Surface Pro will restart, and you should be taken directly to the BIOS setup screen.

Navigating the BIOS Setup Menu

Once you’ve successfully booted into the BIOS, you’ll be presented with a text-based menu. The exact options and layout may vary slightly depending on your Surface Pro model. Here’s a general overview of common BIOS settings:

• Boot: This section allows you to change the boot order of your devices. You can prioritize booting from a USB drive, internal hard drive, or other storage devices.
• Security: This section manages security settings like Secure Boot, which helps protect your system from unauthorized software.
• Advanced: This section contains advanced settings related to hardware configuration, including CPU settings, memory options, and power management.
• Exit: This section allows you to save your changes and exit the BIOS or discard changes and exit without saving.

Saving Changes and Exiting the BIOS

Once you’ve made the necessary changes in the BIOS, it’s crucial to save them before exiting. Typically, you’ll find a “Save & Exit” option in the BIOS menu.
1. Navigate to the Exit Menu: Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate to the “Exit” or “Save & Exit” section.
2. Select “Save & Exit” or “Exit and Save Changes”: Choose the option that saves your changes and exits the BIOS.
3. Confirm the Action: You might be prompted to confirm your action. Press the appropriate key to confirm.

Troubleshooting Common BIOS Access Issues

While the above methods are generally effective, you might encounter some issues while trying to access the BIOS on your Surface Pro. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Incorrect Key Combination: Double-check that you’re using the correct key combination (Power button + Volume Down key) and ensuring you’re holding the keys for the required duration.
• Outdated BIOS: An outdated BIOS version might prevent you from accessing the BIOS using the key combination. Update your BIOS to the latest version through the Surface Pro’s firmware update tool.
• Hardware Issues: If you’re still unable to access the BIOS, there might be a hardware issue with your Surface Pro. Consider contacting Microsoft support for assistance.

Important Considerations

• Back Up Your Data: Before making any significant changes in the BIOS, always back up your important data to prevent data loss.
• Beware of Unknown Settings: Avoid changing settings you’re unfamiliar with, as this could potentially damage your system.
• Consult Microsoft Support: If you’re unsure about any settings or experiencing problems, contact Microsoft support for guidance.

Final Thoughts: Mastering Your Surface Pro

Accessing the BIOS on your Surface Pro might seem daunting at first, but with this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to navigate the process confidently. Remember to follow the steps carefully, understand the importance of each setting, and always back up your data before making any changes. By mastering the art of BIOS access, you’ll gain greater control over your Surface Pro’s hardware and enhance your troubleshooting capabilities.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1: Can I boot my Surface Pro into the BIOS from within the operating system?
A1: No, you cannot boot into the BIOS directly from within the Windows operating system. You need to use the power button and volume down key combination or the UEFI Firmware Settings option in the Recovery Environment.
Q2: What if I accidentally change a setting in the BIOS and my Surface Pro doesn‘t boot?
A2: If you encounter boot issues after changing BIOS settings, try restarting your Surface Pro. If the problem persists, try entering the BIOS again and reverting the changes you made. If you’re still unable to resolve the issue, contact Microsoft support.
Q3: Is it safe to update the BIOS on my Surface Pro?
A3: Updating the BIOS is generally safe, but it’s always recommended to back up your data before proceeding. Ensure you download the BIOS update from a trusted source, such as the Microsoft website.
Q4: What if my Surface Pro model doesn‘t have the UEFI Firmware Settings option in the Recovery Environment?
A4: If your model doesn‘t have the UEFI Firmware Settings option, you’ll need to rely on the power button and volume down key combination to access the BIOS.
Q5: How do I know if my Surface Pro has the latest BIOS version?
A5: You can check your BIOS version by going to the Surface Pro‘s firmware update tool. If an update is available, it will prompt you to download and install it.