Which Key to Press to Enter the Boot Menu on Your PC?

Learn which key to press to access the boot menu, with common keys like F12 and Esc explained for different computer brands.

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To enter the boot menu, usually press F12 or Esc immediately after powering on your computer. However, this can vary depending on the manufacturer. For example, on some Dell models, it’s F12, whereas HP might use Esc. Always check your computer or motherboard's user manual for the specific key.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the boot menu on a computer? The boot menu is a special startup menu that allows you to select the device or drive you want your computer to boot from, such as a hard drive, USB, or DVD.
  2. Why can't I enter the boot menu on my PC? If you can't enter the boot menu, it might be because you are not pressing the correct key at the right time, or your keyboard isn't recognized early in the startup process. Refer to your computer manual for the exact key and try again immediately after powering on.
  3. Do all computers use the same key to enter the boot menu? No, different manufacturers use different keys to enter the boot menu. Common keys include F12, Esc, F10, or F8, so it's best to consult your computer or motherboard's manual.

Watch More

For more information on managing your computer's startup settings, check out videos on BIOS setup, hard drive boot sequence, and troubleshooting common boot issues.

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