Windows won’t start

PC boots straight into BIOS/UEFI setup instead of Windows

Every time you turn the computer on, it goes directly into the BIOS/UEFI setup screen instead of loading Windows, even though you didn't press any key to enter it.

Difficulty
Moderate
Time
20–60 minutes
DIY cost
$5–$15
Pro cost
$60–$150

Symptoms

  • BIOS/UEFI setup screen appears automatically every boot
  • No option to boot Windows shows unless manually selected
  • Sometimes the clock/date in BIOS is wrong
  • May follow a power outage, dead CMOS battery, or a new drive

Likely causes

  • CommonBoot drive missing from the boot order or not detectedIf the BIOS can't find a bootable drive, it defaults to its own setup screen.
  • CommonDead or dying CMOS batteryThis small battery keeps BIOS settings; when it dies, settings including boot order reset.
  • PossibleBIOS setting to 'boot to setup' accidentally enabledSome BIOS versions have a UEFI setting that forces this behavior.
  • PossibleBoot drive cable disconnected or failedA drive the BIOS can't see at all leaves nothing else to boot.
  • Less commonCorrupted BIOS/UEFI settings after a failed firmware updateA bad BIOS update can leave settings in an inconsistent state.

What to do

  1. In the BIOS/UEFI screen, check the Boot Order/Boot Priority tab and confirm your main Windows drive is listed and set first.
  2. If the drive isn't listed at all in the BIOS, check the storage/SATA information page to see if it's detected at all.
  3. If it's not detected, power off, unplug the PC, and reseat the drive's power and data cables (desktops) or check with a technician for laptops.
  4. If the clock and date are also wrong or reset every time, the CMOS battery (a small coin cell on the motherboard) is likely dead and needs replacing.
  5. Load BIOS defaults/optimized defaults from a menu option, save, and exit to rule out a stray misconfigured setting.
  6. If a firmware update was recently attempted and failed, check the manufacturer's site for a recovery procedure specific to that motherboard or laptop model.
  7. If the drive still isn't detected after reseating cables, treat it as a likely drive failure requiring professional diagnosis.

Tools and parts

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When to call a pro

If reseating cables and replacing the CMOS battery don't fix it, or the drive isn't detected in BIOS at all, a professional can test the drive and motherboard.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.