7 Steps to Change the Boot Drive in Windows 11

Hello, I’m here to guide you through the process of changing the boot drive in Windows 11. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your system drive or troubleshoot boot issues, these steps will help you achieve your goal. Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways:

• Changing the boot drive in Windows 11 is a necessary step for upgrading or reinstalling the operating system.
• Accessing the BIOS settings is essential for changing the boot order in Windows 11.
• Booting from a USB or DVD drive requires creating bootable media and adjusting the boot order accordingly.
• Troubleshooting boot issues can be done by turning off Fast Boot, checking BIOS settings, scanning for malware, performing a startup repair, or restoring BIOS to default settings.
• By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth boot process and keep your PC running smoothly.

What Is BIOS?

BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is a firmware interface that is present in most personal computers. It plays a crucial role in the boot process and the overall functionality of the computer system. Let’s take a closer look at what BIOS is and how it works.

When you power on your computer, BIOS is the first software that is executed. It initializes various hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices, to ensure they are functioning properly. BIOS also performs a Power-On Self-Test (POST) to check for any hardware errors or malfunctions.

Once the POST is complete and all components are verified, BIOS proceeds to load the operating system into the computer’s memory. It locates the operating system files on the storage devices and transfers control to the operating system, allowing it to take over and enable the user to interact with the computer.

BIOS provides a basic set of low-level functions and services to the operating system and other software programs. It acts as an intermediary between the hardware and software, allowing them to communicate and work together effectively. Without BIOS, the computer would not be able to start up or operate properly.

Overall, BIOS is a critical component of a computer system, ensuring that all hardware components are functioning correctly and facilitating the smooth boot process. It serves as the bridge between the hardware and software, enabling the computer to operate efficiently.

How to Change Boot Order in BIOS

To change the boot order in BIOS, you need to access the BIOS settings. This is a necessary step in order to prioritize the boot devices and ensure that your computer starts up from the desired device, such as a USB drive or DVD.

Follow these steps to change the boot order in BIOS:

1. Restart your PC.
2. During startup, press the appropriate key multiple times to access the BIOS settings. The specific key may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer. Common keys include F2, F9, F10, F11, or Esc.
3. Once you are in the BIOS setup utility, navigate to the Boot tab.
4. Here, you will see a list of boot devices in the boot order. The device at the top of the list is the one that your computer will attempt to boot from first.
5. To change the boot order, select the desired device and move it to the top of the list using the appropriate key or command.

By changing the boot order in BIOS, you can ensure that your computer starts up from the device of your choice, whether it’s a USB drive, DVD, or other bootable media.

“Changing the boot order in BIOS is a simple process that gives you control over your computer’s startup. By following these steps, you can easily prioritize the boot devices and customize your PC’s boot behavior.”

To further illustrate the process, here is an example of a boot order table:

In this example, the boot order is set to prioritize the USB drive first, followed by the SSD and then the DVD drive. This means that the computer will attempt to boot from the USB drive first, and if it’s not available, it will move on to the next device in the list.

Changing the boot order in BIOS is a useful skill to have, especially when you need to boot from a different device for tasks such as installing a new operating system or running a diagnostic tool. With these steps, you can easily customize your computer’s boot behavior and ensure a smooth startup process.

Booting from USB in Windows 11

Booting from a USB drive in Windows 11 is a crucial process when you need to upgrade or reinstall the operating system. To successfully boot from a USB drive, you must first create a bootable USB flash drive. Once you have prepared the bootable media, you can change the boot order in the BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive as the boot device.

If you are unsure how to create a bootable USB flash drive, follow these simple steps:

1. Insert a USB flash drive into your computer.
2. Download the Windows 11 ISO file from the official Microsoft website.
3. Use a reliable software, such as Rufus or Windows USB/DVD Download Tool, to create a bootable USB drive using the ISO file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Once you have the bootable USB flash drive, you can proceed to change the boot order in the BIOS settings:

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup utility by pressing a specific key (e.g., F2, F9, F10, F11, or Esc) repeatedly during startup. The specific key may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer.
2. Navigate to the Boot tab in the BIOS setup utility.
3. Locate the USB drive in the list of boot devices.
4. Move the USB drive to the top of the boot order by selecting it and using the designated keys (e.g., +/-) to reorder the devices.
5. Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup utility.

Now, when you restart your computer, it will boot directly from the USB drive, allowing you to perform the desired task, such as a Windows 11 installation or system recovery.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your computer boots from the USB drive, allowing you to perform various tasks and utilities that require bootable media in Windows 11.

Method 1: If PC Starts Normally – from Settings

If your PC starts normally, you can change the boot order from the Windows 11 settings. Follow these steps to boot from a USB drive:

1. Insert the bootable USB flash drive into your computer.
2. Navigate to the System > Recovery section in the Settings app.
3. Select the Restart now button under Advanced startup.
4. Your PC will restart and load into the recovery environment.
5. Choose the USB flash drive as the bootable device from the boot menu.

By following these steps, you can easily change the boot order and boot from a USB drive in Windows 11, even if your PC starts normally.

This table summarizes the steps to boot from a USB drive if your PC starts normally:

Method 2: If PC Won’t Start Normally

If your PC is experiencing startup issues and won’t start normally, you can still change the boot order to boot from a USB drive in Windows 11. Here’s how:

1. Restart your computer and access the BIOS settings by pressing a specific key during startup. The key to access the BIOS settings may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer. Common keys include F2, F9, F10, F11, or Esc. Press the key repeatedly until the BIOS setup utility appears.
2. In the BIOS setup utility, navigate to the Boot tab using the arrow keys on your keyboard. Here, you can modify the boot order by selecting the USB drive as the preferred boot device.
3. Once you’ve selected the USB drive, use the designated keys (usually F5 or F6) to move it to the top of the boot order list. This ensures that the computer will attempt to boot from the USB drive first.
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup utility. This will restart your computer.
5. During the restart process, the computer will now recognize the USB drive as the bootable device and will attempt to boot from it.

By following these steps, you can change the boot order in the BIOS settings and successfully boot from a USB drive in Windows 11 even if your PC won’t start normally.

“Changing the boot order in the BIOS settings allows you to prioritize different boot devices, such as USB drives, and determine the order in which they are accessed during the startup process.” – Experts

Boot Order Priority Tips:

• When setting the boot order, make sure to prioritize the USB drive only when necessary. Leaving it as the top boot device can sometimes lead to longer boot times if there are no USB drives connected.
• Remember to save your changes before exiting the BIOS setup utility. Failing to do so will not apply the modified boot order.
• If you’re unsure which key to press to access the BIOS settings, refer to your computer’s documentation or search for the specific key combination online.

With this method, you can gain control over the boot order and successfully boot from a USB drive in Windows 11, even if your PC is experiencing startup issues.

Booting from DVD in Windows 11

In some cases, you may need to boot from a DVD drive in Windows 11, such as when reinstalling the operating system or fixing startup issues. To do this, you need to burn an ISO image to a DVD and insert it into your computer. Change the boot order in the BIOS settings to prioritize the DVD drive, and your computer will boot from the DVD.

If you’re experiencing difficulties with your Windows 11 installation or your PC won’t start normally, booting from a DVD can be a useful solution. By following these steps, you can access Windows 11 installation media and perform the necessary repair or installation tasks.

Burning an ISO Image to a DVD

To boot from a DVD in Windows 11, you first need to create a bootable DVD. This involves burning a downloaded ISO image of Windows 11 onto a blank DVD using a DVD burning software. Follow these steps:

1. Download the Windows 11 ISO file from the official Microsoft website or a trusted source.
2. Insert a blank DVD into your computer’s DVD drive.
3. Open the DVD burning software of your choice. If you don’t have one, there are several free options available online, such as ImgBurn or CDBurnerXP.
4. Select the option to create a new DVD project or burn an ISO image.
5. Choose the Windows 11 ISO file you downloaded as the source.
6. Follow the software’s prompts to complete the burning process.

Once you have burned the ISO image to a DVD, you’re ready to boot from it and proceed with the necessary installation or repair tasks.

Changing the Boot Order in BIOS Settings

To boot from a DVD in Windows 11, you need to change the boot order in the BIOS settings of your computer. Here’s how:

1. Restart your computer and access the BIOS settings by pressing a specific key during startup. The key may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer, but commonly used keys include F2, F9, F10, F11, or Esc.
2. Navigate to the Boot tab in the BIOS setup utility.
3. Locate the DVD drive in the boot device list and move it to the top of the list using the appropriate key (e.g., + or -).
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS settings.

After changing the boot order, restart your computer with the bootable DVD inserted. Your computer will now boot from the DVD drive and load the necessary Windows 11 installation or repair environment.

By booting from a DVD in Windows 11, you can perform various tasks, including reinstalling the operating system, repairing boot issues, or accessing advanced troubleshooting options. Make sure to follow the on-screen instructions and prompts provided by the Windows 11 installation or repair environment to proceed with the desired actions.

Troubleshooting Boot Issues

If you’re encountering boot issues on your Windows 11 PC, don’t worry! There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem and get your system up and running smoothly again.

1. Turn Off Fast Boot: One common cause of boot problems is Fast Boot, a feature in Windows 11 that preloads drivers to speed up startup. However, in some cases, Fast Boot may cause compatibility issues with Windows Update. To resolve this, follow these steps:
   1. Open the Start menu and search for “Power Options”.
   2. Click on Power Options to open the settings.
   3. Select Choose what the power buttons do from the left side menu.
   4. Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable to enable changes.
   5. Scroll down to the Shutdown settings section and uncheck the box next to Turn on fast startup (recommended).
   6. Click Save changes to apply the settings.
2. Check Your BIOS Settings: Another possible cause of boot problems is misconfigured BIOS settings. To check your BIOS settings, follow these steps:
   1. Restart your PC and during startup, press the key specified by your computer’s manufacturer to enter the BIOS setup utility. This is typically the Del, F2, F9, or F10 key.
   2. Navigate through the BIOS menus to find the relevant settings. Look for options related to boot order, Secure Boot, and other relevant configurations.
   3. If you suspect any settings may be causing the issue, consider resetting the BIOS to its default settings.
3. Scan Your System for Malware: Malware infections can also interfere with the boot process. To scan your system for malware, follow these steps:
   1. Install a trusted anti-malware tool such as Auslogics Anti-Malware.
   2. Launch the anti-malware software and initiate a full system scan.
   3. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove any detected malware.
4. Perform a Startup Repair: If the above steps don’t resolve the boot issue, you can try performing a startup repair. Here’s how:
   1. Insert your Windows 11 installation media or recovery drive.
   2. Restart your PC and boot from the installation media or recovery drive.
   3. Select your language preferences and click Next.
   4. Click on Repair your computer and select Troubleshoot.
   5. Choose Advanced options and select Startup Repair.
   6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the startup repair process.
5. Restore BIOS to Default Settings: If all else fails, you can restore the BIOS to its default settings. Here’s how:
   1. Enter the BIOS setup utility by restarting your PC and pressing the specified key during startup.
   2. Navigate to the Exit menu and select the option to restore BIOS to default settings.
   3. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.
   4. Restart your PC and check if the boot issue is resolved.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can tackle common boot issues on your Windows 11 PC and ensure a smooth startup process.

Remember, it’s important to approach boot issues with patience and caution. It’s always a good idea to back up your important files before attempting any troubleshooting steps. If you’re unsure about any of the steps mentioned, seek guidance from a knowledgeable professional.

Step 1: Turn Off Fast Boot

Fast Boot is a feature in Windows 11 that allows for faster startup by preloading drivers. However, if there are compatibility issues with Windows Update, Fast Boot may not work properly. To ensure a smooth and error-free boot process, it is recommended to turn off Fast Boot in the Power Options settings.

1. Step 1: Press the Windows key + X to open the Power User Menu.
2. Step 2: Select “Power Options” from the menu.
3. Step 3: In the Power Options window, click on “Choose what the power buttons do” from the left-side menu.
4. Step 4: Click on “Change settings that are currently unavailable”.
5. Step 5: Scroll down to the “Shutdown settings” section and uncheck the box next to “Turn on fast startup (recommended).
6. Step 6: Click on “Save changes” to apply the settings.

By turning off Fast Boot, you ensure that all drivers are properly loaded during startup, minimizing the chance of compatibility issues and allowing for a smoother boot process.

Step 2: Check Your BIOS Settings

Misconfigured BIOS settings can cause startup issues on your Windows 11 PC. To ensure a smooth boot process, it’s important to check and configure your BIOS settings correctly. By accessing the BIOS setup utility and navigating to the relevant sections, you can review and adjust various settings that impact your system’s performance and functionality.

One important BIOS setting to check is Secure Boot. Secure Boot is a feature that protects your system against malware by only allowing trusted software to run during startup. You can enable or disable Secure Boot depending on your security preferences and system requirements.

Another important setting to review is the Boot Order. This determines the priority of devices that the BIOS checks for bootable operating systems. By adjusting the boot order, you can specify which device, such as a hard drive, SSD, or USB drive, should be scanned first for bootable software.

Additionally, you may want to explore other BIOS settings, such as power management options, CPU settings, and memory configurations, to optimize your system’s performance and compatibility.

Common BIOS Settings

Remember, when making changes to your BIOS settings, exercise caution and refer to your computer’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website for detailed instructions specific to your device. Incorrectly modifying BIOS settings can lead to system instability or other unintended consequences.

By carefully checking and configuring your BIOS settings, you can ensure optimal performance and a smooth boot process on your Windows 11 PC.

Step 3: Scan Your System for Malware

Malware can be a major cause of boot issues on your Windows 11 PC. It can delete crucial files or alter system settings, leading to startup problems. To ensure the security and stability of your system, it is essential to regularly scan your PC for malware.

One effective tool for scanning and removing malware is Auslogics Anti-Malware. With its comprehensive scanning algorithms, it can detect and eliminate any malicious files or programs hiding on your computer, ensuring a clean and safe boot process.

Importance of Scanning for Malware

Scanning for malware is vital for several reasons:

• Protection against potential threats: Regular scans help safeguard your PC from harmful viruses, worms, ransomware, and other malicious software.
• Prevention of data loss: Malware can corrupt or delete important files, leading to data loss. Scanning your system helps identify and remove such threats before they cause irreversible damage.
• Maintaining system performance: Malware often consumes system resources, resulting in sluggish performance. By scanning for malware, you can keep your PC running at optimal speed.
• Ensuring a smooth boot process: Malicious software can disrupt the boot sequence, making it difficult or impossible to start your computer. Scanning for malware helps identify and eliminate any malicious code that may interfere with the boot process.

“Regular scans for malware are essential to protect your Windows 11 PC from potential threats and maintain its performance and stability.”

By regularly scanning your system for malware, you can ensure the security and stability of your Windows 11 PC. With trustworthy anti-malware software like Auslogics Anti-Malware, you can effectively detect and remove any harmful programs or files. Make it a habit to scan your system at least once a week to keep your computer running smoothly.

Step 4: Perform a Startup Repair

If your Windows 11 PC fails to start normally, don’t worry. There’s a handy tool called startup repair that can help fix boot issues and get your system up and running again. This tool scans your computer for errors and attempts to repair any issues that are preventing it from booting properly.

To perform a startup repair in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Access the Windows 11 recovery environment. You can do this by restarting your PC and repeatedly pressing the F11 key during startup until the recovery environment appears.
2. In the recovery environment, select the Troubleshoot option.
3. Next, choose Advanced options.
4. From the advanced options menu, select Startup Repair.
5. Windows 11 will now scan your system for any errors and attempt to repair them.
6. Once the startup repair process is complete, restart your computer.

This should resolve most boot issues and allow your Windows 11 PC to start normally again. If you’re still experiencing problems after performing a startup repair, you may need to consider other troubleshooting steps or seek further assistance.

Performing a startup repair can be a valuable tool in getting your Windows 11 PC back on track. By following these steps, you can quickly diagnose and fix any boot issues that may be plaguing your system. Remember, if the startup repair doesn’t solve the problem, there are other troubleshooting options available to you.

Step 5: Restoring BIOS to Default Settings

In some cases, when all other methods have failed to resolve boot issues, restoring the BIOS settings to their default values can be a helpful solution. This process will reset all BIOS settings to their original configurations, effectively undoing any changes that may be causing startup problems.

To restore the BIOS settings to default in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Start by restarting your computer. During the startup process, look for a message or prompt that instructs you on which key to press to enter the BIOS setup utility. Common keys include F2, F9, F10, F11, or Esc, but the specific key may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer.
2. Once you’ve entered the BIOS setup utility, navigate to the “Settings” or “Restore Defaults” section. The location of this option may vary depending on your BIOS version, but it is typically found in a menu or tab labeled “Exit,” “Setup,” or “Main.”
3. Select the option to restore the BIOS settings to their default values. This may be labeled as “Restore Defaults,” “Load Default Settings,” or something similar.
4. Confirm your selection and save the changes. This is usually done by pressing a key, such as F10, or selecting an option like “Save and Exit.”

Once the BIOS settings have been restored to default, your computer will reboot with the original BIOS configurations. This can often resolve boot issues caused by incorrect settings or configuration errors.

It’s important to note that restoring the BIOS to default settings should be done with caution, as it will reset all custom settings you may have made. Make sure to backup any important configuration changes or settings before proceeding with this step.

Note: Restoring BIOS settings to default is a powerful troubleshooting method, but it should only be used as a last resort. If possible, try other methods mentioned in this guide before resorting to this step.

Final Thoughts

Changing the boot drive in Windows 11 is an essential step when upgrading or reinstalling the operating system. By following the given steps, you can easily change the boot order in BIOS or UEFI firmware settings and boot from a USB or DVD drive. Troubleshooting boot issues and ensuring proper BIOS settings are also crucial for a smooth boot process.

Final Tips for Changing Boot Drive:

1. Make sure to create a backup of important data before changing the boot drive. This will help prevent data loss in case of any issues during the process.
2. Double-check the compatibility of the new boot drive with your system to ensure seamless performance and compatibility.
3. Before changing the boot drive, disable any secure boot or encryption features that may prevent the new drive from being recognized.
4. If you encounter any difficulties in accessing BIOS settings or changing the boot order, refer to your computer or motherboard’s user manual for specific instructions.
5. Take note of any special considerations or specific steps required by your computer manufacturer when changing the boot drive.

It’s important to be cautious and follow the instructions carefully while changing the boot drive. Any mistakes or improper configurations can lead to system instability or failure to boot. If you’re uncertain about any steps, seek guidance from a qualified technician or consult the manufacturer’s support resources.

By adhering to these final tips, you can smoothly change the boot drive in Windows 11 and ensure a seamless and efficient booting process for your PC.

Conclusion

Changing the boot drive in Windows 11 is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in just a few easy steps. By following this guide, you can confidently change the boot order in the BIOS or UEFI firmware settings and successfully boot from a USB or DVD drive. Additionally, troubleshooting any boot issues and ensuring proper BIOS settings are essential for a smooth boot process.

By upgrading your system drive and keeping your PC running smoothly, you can enhance the performance and overall functionality of your Windows 11 device. Remember to carefully follow the instructions provided in this guide, ensuring that you correctly navigate through the BIOS or UEFI settings, and make the necessary changes to the boot order.

Whether you’re looking to reinstall your operating system, upgrade to a faster drive, or resolve boot issues, this guide has covered all the essential steps and information you need. With a bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can confidently change the boot drive on your Windows 11 PC without any hassle.