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How to Reset BIOS Settings to Default in Windows 11 (Complete Guide 2026)
The BIOS or UEFI firmware controls many low-level hardware settings on your computer. If you've recently changed options such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, virtualization, boot order, or CPU settings and your PC becomes unstable, resetting the BIOS to its default configuration can often solve the problem.
.png "How to Reset BIOS Settings to Default in Windows 11 (Complete Guide 2026)") |
| Reset BIOS or UEFI settings to their factory defaults in Windows 11 using the BIOS menu, UEFI Firmware Settings, or a CMOS reset. This guide helps resolve boot problems, unstable system settings, failed overclocking, and configuration issues while showing which BIOS features should be re-enabled afterward, such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and virtualization. |
This guide explains several safe methods to restore BIOS settings without affecting your personal files.
Related: How to Check BIOS Version in Windows 11
What Happens When You Reset BIOS?
Resetting BIOS restores the firmware configuration to the manufacturer's default settings.
The following settings may return to their defaults:
- Boot order
- Secure Boot configuration
- TPM settings (may need to be re-enabled)
- Virtualization (VT-x / AMD-V)
- XMP or EXPO memory profiles
- Fan profiles
- CPU overclock settings
- Date and time (on some systems)
Method 1: Reset BIOS Using the BIOS Menu
- Restart your computer.
- Press the BIOS key (Delete, F2, F10, or Esc depending on your PC).
- Open the Exit or Save & Exit menu.
- Select one of the following options:
- Load Optimized Defaults
- Load Setup Defaults
- Restore Defaults
- Factory Defaults
Save the changes and restart Windows.
Method 2: Reset BIOS from UEFI Firmware Settings
- Open Settings.
- Select System → Recovery.
- Click Restart now under Advanced startup.
- Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings.
- After entering BIOS, load the default settings.
Method 3: Clear CMOS (Desktop PCs)
If you cannot access the BIOS, clearing the CMOS can restore factory settings.
- Turn off your PC.
- Disconnect the power cable.
- Open the computer case.
- Remove the CMOS battery for several minutes or use the Clear CMOS jumper if available.
- Reinstall the battery and start your computer.
Always refer to your motherboard manual before using this method.
Common Reasons to Reset BIOS
- Boot failure after changing BIOS settings.
- Failed CPU or memory overclock.
- Problems after enabling TPM or Secure Boot.
- Virtualization no longer works correctly.
- Random system instability.
- Hardware upgrade issues.
What You Should Check After Resetting BIOS
- Re-enable TPM 2.0 if needed.
- Enable Secure Boot if required.
- Enable virtualization (VT-x or AMD-V).
- Verify the correct boot drive.
- Re-enable XMP or EXPO memory profiles if you use them.
Related Articles
- How to Enable TPM 2.0 in Windows 11
- How to Enable Secure Boot in Windows 11
- How to Enable Virtualization (VT-x/AMD-V) in Windows 11
- How to Check BIOS Mode (UEFI or Legacy)
- How to Check BIOS Version in Windows 11
- This PC Can't Run Windows 11: How to Fix It
Frequently Asked Questions
Does resetting BIOS remove Windows?
No. Windows remains installed on your storage device. Only firmware settings are restored.
Will I lose my files?
No. Personal files, applications, and documents are not deleted by resetting BIOS.
Can resetting BIOS fix boot problems?
Yes. Incorrect BIOS settings are a common cause of startup problems, especially after changing firmware options.
Final Thoughts
Resetting BIOS settings to default is one of the safest ways to recover from configuration problems, failed overclocking, or incorrect firmware changes. After restoring the default settings, remember to re-enable features such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and virtualization if your system or Windows 11 requires them.