Master Your Surface Go: Essential Tips on How to Get into BIOS

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the fundamental software that controls your Surface Go’s hardware. It’s the first thing that loads when you turn on your device, and it’s responsible for initializing components, configuring boot order, and managing system settings. Knowing how to access the BIOS is crucial for troubleshooting issues, updating firmware, or making advanced adjustments. This guide will walk you through the process of entering the BIOS on your Surface Go, providing step-by-step instructions and valuable tips for a smooth experience.

Understanding the BIOS

Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what the BIOS is and why it’s important:

• The Heart of Your Device: The BIOS is the bridge between your hardware and operating system. It ensures that your computer boots up correctly and that all the necessary components are functioning properly.
• Boot Order and Configuration: The BIOS allows you to configure the boot order, determining which device (like your hard drive or USB drive) your computer boots from.
• Hardware Settings: You can adjust various hardware settings within the BIOS, such as the date and time, the type of keyboard and mouse, and even the system’s power management options.
• Troubleshooting and Updates: Accessing the BIOS is essential for troubleshooting boot issues, updating firmware, and recovering from system failures.

Method 1: Using the Power Button and Volume Buttons

This is the most common method for accessing the BIOS on Surface Go devices. Here’s how it works:
1. Shut down your Surface Go: Ensure the device is completely powered off.
2. Press and hold the Power button: Keep the Power button pressed down.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the Volume Up button: While still holding the Power button, press and hold the Volume Up button.
4. Release the Power button: Release the Power button, but continue holding the Volume Up button.
5. Release the Volume Up button: Once the Surface Go logo appears, release the Volume Up button.
6. Enter the BIOS: You should now be in the BIOS setup menu.

Method 2: Using the UEFI Firmware Settings

If the first method doesn‘t work, you can try accessing the BIOS through the UEFI Firmware Settings:
1. Go to Settings: Open the Settings app on your Surface Go.
2. Navigate to Update & Security: Select “Update & Security” from the left-hand menu.
3. Choose Recovery: Click on “Recovery” in the right-hand pane.
4. Advanced Startup: Click the “Restart now” button under “Advanced startup.”
5. Troubleshoot: Select “Troubleshoot” from the options.
6. Advanced Options: Choose “Advanced options.”
7. UEFI Firmware Settings: Select “UEFI Firmware Settings.”
8. Restart: Your Surface Go will restart and take you to the BIOS setup menu.

Navigating the BIOS Menu

Once you’re in the BIOS, you’ll see a menu with various options. The specific options may vary depending on your Surface Go model, but here are some common ones:

• Boot: This section allows you to change the boot order, specifying which device your Surface Go should boot from first.
• Security: This section deals with security settings, such as enabling or disabling Secure Boot and setting passwords.
• Advanced: This section contains advanced settings for your hardware, including the date and time, the SATA mode, and the CPU configuration.
• Exit: This section allows you to save your changes and exit the BIOS.

Making Changes in the BIOS

When making changes in the BIOS, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Incorrect settings can cause your Surface Go to malfunction. If you’re unsure about a particular setting, it’s best to leave it as it is.

• Use the arrow keys: Navigate through the menus using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
• Enter: Press Enter to select an option.
• F10 to Save and Exit: To save your changes and exit the BIOS, press F10.

Common BIOS Settings and Their Importance

Here are some common BIOS settings and their significance:

• Boot Order: This setting determines the order in which your Surface Go checks for a bootable device. You can prioritize booting from your hard drive, a USB drive, or a network drive.
• Secure Boot: This feature helps protect your device from malicious software by verifying the authenticity of the operating system.
• Fast Boot: This setting enables faster boot times by skipping certain boot processes.
• UEFI Boot: This setting allows you to boot from UEFI devices, which offer better performance and security.
• SATA Mode: This setting determines how your hard drive is connected to the motherboard. You can choose between AHCI and IDE modes.

When to Access the BIOS

Here are some scenarios where accessing the BIOS might be necessary:

• Troubleshooting Boot Issues: If your Surface Go is not booting properly, accessing the BIOS can help you identify the problem.
• Changing Boot Order: If you want to boot from a USB drive or a different hard drive, you can use the BIOS to change the boot order.
• Updating Firmware: Some devices allow you to update their firmware from within the BIOS.
• Enabling or Disabling Features: You can use the BIOS to enable or disable certain features, such as Secure Boot or Fast Boot.

Resetting the BIOS to Default Settings

If you’ve made changes to the BIOS and your Surface Go is not working correctly, you can reset the BIOS to its default settings. This will restore all settings to their original values.
1. Enter the BIOS: Access the BIOS using the methods described earlier.
2. Locate the Reset option: Look for an option called “Load Defaults,” “Reset to Default,” or something similar.
3. Select and confirm: Select the reset option and confirm your choice.
4. Save and Exit: Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

BIOS: A Powerful Tool for System Management

The BIOS is a powerful tool that allows you to control and configure your Surface Go’s hardware. By understanding how to access and navigate the BIOS, you can troubleshoot issues, update firmware, and optimize your device’s performance. Remember to always proceed with caution when making changes in the BIOS, and if you’re unsure about a setting, it’s best to leave it as it is.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What if I forget my BIOS password?
A: If you forget your BIOS password, you may need to contact Microsoft Support for assistance. They may be able to help you reset the password or provide other solutions.
Q: Can I access the BIOS on a Surface Go 2 or Surface Go 3?
A: Yes, the methods described in this article apply to Surface Go 2 and Surface Go 3 devices as well.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake in the BIOS?
A: Making incorrect changes in the BIOS can lead to boot issues or other problems. It’s best to proceed with caution and refer to the documentation for your Surface Go model if you’re unsure about a setting.
Q: Can I use the BIOS to install a new operating system?
A: The BIOS itself cannot install an operating system. However, you can use the BIOS to change the boot order so that your Surface Go boots from a USB drive containing the operating system installation files.
Q: How often should I update the BIOS?
A: You should update the BIOS only if there is a specific reason, such as a security vulnerability or a performance improvement. Refer to Microsoft’s website for the latest BIOS updates for your Surface Go model.