How to Enter BIOS on a Dell Latitude

The Dell Latitude uses BIOS or Basic Input-Output System to scan the machine before turning on and loading the operating system. The BIOS ecosystem is designed to scan the hardware and configure the computer before any software applications kick on. You can enter BIOS to modify the process or to perform a status check when you start the computer. The Dell Latitude BIOS process is similar to other Dell models and you can boot to BIOS easily.

Technically, you can enter BIOS by running a restart but powering down the computer first is a good way to ensure you have a fresh start upon entering BIOS. Do a full power down by closing all programs and shutting down the computer. After the shutdown is complete, unplug from the wall or power strip to run out any residual power. This ensures no memory of the last run is active. Wait for a full minute before plugging the computer back into the power source.

Press the power button to start the computer and begin the Dell boot to BIOS process. Do not wait for the computer to fully start and load the operating system. Only wait until the DELL logo appears. Press "F2" on your keyboard and hold the keys until the BIOS operating platform launches and displays. The window to enter BIOS on a Dell is short and you can easily miss it. If the operating system loads while you are holding F2, you must restart or power down the computer and try again. You may need several attempts to connect on the timing and enter BIOS. It's not a common function and the timing is tricky. Try holding F2 immediately after pressing the power button if you fail on the first attempt.

After you enter BIOS on the Dell Latitude, you can make the desired changes. The reasons for entering BIOS and making adjustments vary and are often based on upgrades and fresh installs of operating systems. Be sure to carefully check any changes before saving and exiting BIOS. To save changes, hit "F10" on your keyboard and hold the keys until the changes are saved. This will also trigger an exit from BIOS and your operating system will launch. If your changes do not take effect immediately, try a restart without entering BIOS to allow them to take hold. Any changes should however save by simply hitting F10 to launch the operating system.