How to Enter BIOS on Surface Go 2: A Comprehensive, Step-by-Step Guide

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial part of your Surface Go 2, managing the communication between your hardware and operating system. Sometimes, you might need to access the BIOS to troubleshoot issues, update firmware, or change boot settings. This guide will walk you through the process of entering BIOS on your Surface Go 2, explaining the steps clearly and providing helpful tips along the way.

Why You Might Need to Enter BIOS

Here are some common reasons why you might need to access the BIOS on your Surface Go 2:

• Troubleshooting boot issues: If your Surface Go 2 is unable to boot properly, entering BIOS can help you diagnose and resolve the problem.
• Updating firmware: BIOS updates can improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security.
• Changing boot order: You can prioritize boot devices like USB drives or internal hard drives from the BIOS.
• Disabling Secure Boot: Secure Boot is a security feature that prevents unauthorized software from loading at startup. You might need to disable it for certain applications or troubleshooting purposes.
• Enabling Legacy Boot: Some older devices or operating systems might require Legacy Boot mode to function properly.

Accessing BIOS on Your Surface Go 2

The process of entering BIOS on a Surface Go 2 is slightly different than on traditional laptops. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:
1. Power off your Surface Go 2: Make sure your device is completely shut down.
2. Press and hold the volume up button: This is the key to accessing the BIOS on Surface Go 2.
3. Press and hold the power button: While still holding the volume up button, press and hold the power button.
4. Release the power button: After a few seconds, release the power button while continuing to hold the volume up button.
5. Release the volume up button: Once you see the Surface logo and the “Preparing automatic repair” message, release the volume up button.
6. Wait for the BIOS screen: The BIOS screen should appear shortly after.

Navigating the BIOS Menu

The BIOS menu on your Surface Go 2 will vary depending on the specific version of the firmware. However, you’ll generally find the following options:

• Boot: This section allows you to change the boot order of your devices, enabling you to boot from a USB drive, CD/DVD, or internal hard drive.
• Security: This section deals with security settings, including Secure Boot, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) settings, and password protection.
• Advanced: This section contains advanced settings like power management options, SATA mode, and other hardware configurations.
• Exit: This section allows you to save changes and exit the BIOS menu.

Making Changes in the BIOS

Once you’re in the BIOS menu, you can use the arrow keys to navigate between options and the Enter key to select them. You can usually use the “+” and “-” keys to adjust values or toggle settings.
Remember to be careful when making changes in the BIOS, as incorrect settings can affect your device’s functionality. If you’re unsure about a setting, it’s best to leave it as it is.

Saving Your Changes and Exiting BIOS

After making the necessary changes, you need to save them and exit the BIOS. This process usually involves the following steps:
1. Select the “Exit” option: This option is typically found at the bottom of the BIOS menu.
2. Choose “Save & Exit”: This will save your changes and restart your Surface Go 2.
3. Confirm your choice: You might be prompted to confirm your choice before the device restarts.

Troubleshooting BIOS Access Issues

If you’re having trouble accessing the BIOS on your Surface Go 2, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Try a different USB port: If you’re using a USB drive to access the BIOS, try plugging it into a different port.
• Check your keyboard: Make sure the volume up button and power button are functioning correctly.
• Update your firmware: Outdated firmware can sometimes cause issues with BIOS access. Check for firmware updates on the Microsoft website.
• Contact Microsoft Support: If you’re still unable to access the BIOS, contact Microsoft Support for assistance.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced BIOS Settings

While the basic BIOS settings are sufficient for most users, here are some advanced settings that you might find useful:

• UEFI Boot Mode: This setting determines the boot mode of your Surface Go 2. UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a newer and more secure boot mode than Legacy BIOS.
• Secure Boot: This feature prevents unauthorized software from loading at startup. You can enable or disable it based on your security needs.
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM): This hardware component provides enhanced security features, including encryption and secure storage.
• Power Management Options: You can adjust power settings like wake-up timers, sleep modes, and fan speed from the BIOS.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the BIOS

The BIOS is a powerful tool that allows you to customize and manage your Surface Go 2’s hardware. By understanding the basics of accessing and navigating the BIOS, you can troubleshoot issues, optimize performance, and enhance your device’s security.
Remember to be cautious when making changes in the BIOS, and always back up your important data before making any major adjustments. If you’re unsure about a setting, it’s best to contact Microsoft Support or consult a qualified technician.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What happens if I don’t save my changes before exiting the BIOS?
A: If you don’t save your changes before exiting the BIOS, all the modifications you made will be discarded, and the BIOS settings will revert to their previous state.
Q: Can I access the BIOS from within Windows?
A: No, you cannot access the BIOS from within Windows. You need to enter the BIOS before the operating system loads.
Q: How often should I update my Surface Go 2’s firmware?
A: It’s recommended to update your firmware whenever new versions are available. Firmware updates often include bug fixes, security enhancements, and performance improvements.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally change a BIOS setting that causes my Surface Go 2 to malfunction?
A: If you accidentally change a BIOS setting that causes your Surface Go 2 to malfunction, you can try to reset the BIOS to its default settings. This option is usually available in the BIOS menu. If resetting the BIOS doesn’t resolve the issue, you might need to contact Microsoft Support for assistance.