Guide to Modify UEFI (BIOS) Boot Order for USB on Windows 11

How to Change UEFI Boot Order on Windows 11

If you’re looking to modify the UEFI boot order on Windows 11, whether for installing an operating system or configuring a dual-boot setup, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through various methods, ensuring you can boot from the right device every time.

Why Change the UEFI Boot Order?

Changing the boot order may become necessary for several reasons: reinstalling your operating system, using a bootable USB, or managing dual-boot configurations. Without adjustment, your system may skip bootable media and instead start the default operating system, which can be frustrating. Knowing how to make these changes can save you significant time and hassle.

Accessing UEFI Firmware Settings
Change Boot Order Without Entering UEFI
Change Boot Loader Order in Dual-Boot Systems

Accessing UEFI Firmware Settings

Here’s how you can change the UEFI boot order on Windows 11:

Begin by opening the Settings app.
Navigate to System.
Click on Recovery.
Under the “Advanced startup” section, click the Restart now button.
Upon restart, select Troubleshoot.
Next, click Advanced options.
Select the UEFI Firmware Settings option, then click Restart.
In the UEFI interface, find the boot options page.
Identify the USB drive as the primary boot device and ensure it’s set correctly.
Save your changes and exit.

Change Boot Order Without Entering UEFI

If you only need to boot from an alternate device once, follow these steps:

Shut down your computer.
Start it back up.
Immediately press Esc, Delete, or a specific function key (often F2, F10) as prompted on your screen to enter the boot menu.
Select the desired boot device from the options presented.

Change Boot Loader Order in Dual-Boot Systems

In Windows 11, it’s straightforward to change your boot loader order without accessing BIOS by using the System Configuration utility.

Using msconfig

Open Start and search for System Configuration.
Launch the msconfig app.
Click on the Boot tab.
Choose the operating system you wish to set as the default.
Hit the Set as default button.
Ensure to click Apply, then OK.

Utilizing Windows Recovery Environment

Power off your computer and turn it back on.
In the boot menu that appears, select Change defaults or choose other options.
Next, click on Choose a default operating system.
Designate the version of Windows that you would like to set as default.

Once these modifications are made, your system will prioritize the newly specified order during the boot process, simplifying access to your preferred operating system.

Updated December 31, 2024: This guide has been refreshed to reflect the latest processes to change boot order on Windows 11.

Further Assistance

If you encounter additional challenges while changing your UEFI boot order, consider visiting your hardware manufacturer’s support site for specialized guides tailored to your system.

Additional Insights

1. How can I enter BIOS on Windows 11?

To enter BIOS, restart your computer and press the designated key (like F2, Delete, or Esc) during the boot process, as indicated on your screen.

2. What happens if I change the boot order but forget to save?

If the changes aren’t saved, the boot sequence will revert to the previous settings, and your system will boot as usual without the new configuration.

3. Can I boot from a network drive?

Yes, if your UEFI firmware supports it, you can select a network drive as a boot option, typically used in enterprise or managed environments.