Unlocking Your BIOS: Simple Changes for Better Performance

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or the newer UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a powerful but often-overlooked part of your computer. It’s the first software to run when you boot up your PC, and it controls how your hardware communicates. Most people never touch their BIOS settings, but making a few simple, safe changes can unlock hidden performance, improve system stability, and even fix common hardware problems.

At AS Computer Solutions here in Onoway, we use BIOS settings to optimize computers for our clients. We know that while the BIOS can be intimidating, a little knowledge can go a long way. Before you dive in, remember to be cautious and only change settings you understand. When in doubt, it’s always best to leave a setting at its default.

Here are some simple BIOS changes that can make a big difference for your computer.

✅ Step 1: How to Access Your BIOS

To make any changes, you first need to get into the BIOS menu.

How to do it:
1. Restart your computer.
2. As soon as the screen goes black, begin repeatedly pressing a specific key. This key varies by manufacturer but is usually one of the following: F2, F10, F12, or Del.
3. If you’re unsure, check your computer or motherboard manufacturer’s website. The correct key is often displayed on the screen during the first few seconds of boot-up.

🛠️ Step 2: Key Settings to Change for Better Performance

Once you’re in the BIOS menu, here are a few common settings you can adjust.

📌 Scenario 1: Making Your Computer Boot Faster

What to change: The boot order.
Diagnosis: If your computer tries to boot from a network or an external drive before your main hard drive (SSD/HDD), it can add a few seconds to your boot time.
Try This:
1. Navigate to the Boot or Boot Order tab.
2. Set your main drive (the one with your operating system on it) as the first boot device.
3. Disable any unnecessary boot options, such as booting from a network or a USB drive (unless you are using it to install Windows).
4. Save your changes and exit. Your computer should now boot directly from your main drive.

⚠️ Scenario 2: Unlocking Your RAM’s Full Speed

What to change: The XMP/DOCP profile.
Diagnosis: RAM (Random Access Memory) can run at a faster speed than the default setting. Most RAM kits are sold with an XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) or DOCP (Direct Overclock Profile) that contains the manufacturer’s recommended settings for optimal speed and stability.
Try This:
1. Navigate to the Advanced or Overclocking section of your BIOS.
2. Find the XMP or DOCP setting.
3. Change it from “Disabled” to “Profile 1” (or whatever the recommended profile is).
4. Save and exit. Your RAM will now run at its advertised speed, which can significantly improve gaming and overall system performance.

🔄 Scenario 3: Improving CPU Cooling and Fan Control

What to change: Fan control curves.
Diagnosis: If your computer’s fans are too loud or if your CPU is running hot, you can adjust the fan speed based on temperature.
Try This:
1. Look for a section called “Fan Control,” “Q-Fan Control,” or similar.
2. You can set a custom curve that increases the fan speed as the CPU temperature rises. This allows your fans to stay quiet during light use and ramp up when they are needed for heavy tasks.

🧰 Scenario 4: Enabling Virtualization for Better Performance

What to change: Virtualization Technology (VT-x or AMD-V).
Diagnosis: If you plan to run virtual machines (like Linux inside Windows) or use certain Android emulators, you need to enable virtualization in the BIOS.
Try This:
1. Navigate to the Advanced, CPU Configuration, or Security section.
2. Find the setting for Intel VT-x or AMD-V and enable it.
3. Save and exit.

🧰 Still Need Help? Bring It to the Pros

Making changes in the BIOS can seem risky, and an incorrect setting can prevent your computer from booting. If you’re ever unsure about a setting, it’s best to leave it alone. The good news is that most motherboards have a “Reset to Defaults” option, which can reverse any changes you’ve made.

If you’re still not getting the performance you expect or are worried about making these changes yourself, don’t stress—AS Computer Solutions is here to help.

We can:

Professionally configure your BIOS for optimal performance and stability.
Diagnose and resolve complex boot issues.
Recommend and install hardware that is compatible with your BIOS settings.

🏡 Local. Reliable. Ready to Help.

Serving Onoway and surrounding communities, AS Computer Solutions is your go-to for friendly, affordable tech support. Don’t let a few intimidating settings hold your computer back. Give us a shout, and we’ll help you unlock its full potential.

Call or visit us today: 📞 (780) 967 0215 🌐 www.site.ascsonoway.com 📍 Onoway, Alberta 📧 [email protected]