Can’t get into BIOS on ASRock motherboard? You’re not alone. The solution is simpler than you think – just press F2 or Delete repeatedly when you see the ASRock logo during startup. But if that’s not working (especially with Fast Boot enabled), this guide shows you every method that works, plus fixes for common problems.
Whether you need to change boot order, enable XMP, or troubleshoot hardware issues, accessing your BIOS is essential. I’ll walk you through all the ways to enter ASRock BIOS, from basic key presses to advanced troubleshooting when nothing else works.
ASRock BIOS Keys
The BIOS key for asrock motherboard depends on what you want to do:
- Enter BIOS Setup: Press F2 or Delete
- Boot Menu: Press F11
- BIOS Flash: Press F6 (some models)
Press these keys repeatedly as soon as you power on your PC. Don’t wait for Windows to start loading – that’s too late.
Primary Methods to Access ASRock BIOS
Method 1: Using the Standard BIOS Keys
This is the most common way to enter BIOS on any ASRock board:
- Completely shut down your computer
- Press the power button to turn it on
- Immediately start pressing F2 repeatedly
- Keep pressing until the BIOS screen appears
- If F2 doesn’t work, try the Delete key instead
The asrock motherboard boot menu key F11 gives you a different option. This opens a quick boot selection menu where you can choose which device to boot from temporarily, without changing your permanent boot settings.
Method 2: Windows Advanced Startup (When Keys Don’t Work)
If you’re experiencing asrock not booting into bios with the standard keys, Windows provides an alternative path:
- Click the Start button and select Settings
- Go to Update & Security > Recovery
- Under Advanced startup, click “Restart now”
- Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options
- Choose “UEFI Firmware Settings”
- Click Restart
Your PC will restart directly into the BIOS setup utility. This method works perfectly when Fast Boot is preventing keyboard input during startup.
Method 3: Using ASRock’s Restart to UEFI Utility
For the ultimate convenience, asrock boot to uefi download their special utility:
- Visit ASRock’s website and find your motherboard model
- Go to the Support > Download section
- Look for “Restart to UEFI” under Utilities
- Download and install the program
- Run it and click “Enter UEFI setup on next boot”
- Click Apply and restart
This asrock boot to uefi utility bypasses all startup issues and takes you straight to BIOS. It’s especially useful if you’ve enabled Ultra Fast Boot.
Troubleshooting: When You Cannot Enter BIOS
Problem 1: Fast Boot Blocking Access
When asrock cannot enter bios due to Fast Boot, your system boots so quickly that it ignores keyboard input. Here’s how to fix it:
Solution A: Hold the Power Button
- While the PC is off, press and hold the power button
- Keep holding it while the system starts
- This forces a slower boot, giving you time to press F2
Solution B: Clear CMOS
- Turn off your PC and unplug the power cable
- Remove the CMOS battery for 5 minutes
- Replace the battery and plug in power
- Start your PC and press F2
Problem 2: ASRock Fast Boot Enter BIOS Issues
If you have asrock fast boot enter bios problems, the system might skip the keyboard initialization entirely. Try these fixes:
- Connect a PS/2 keyboard if you have one
- Use a different USB port (preferably USB 2.0)
- Hold Shift while clicking “Shut down” in Windows, then cold boot
- Remove all USB devices except keyboard
Problem 3: Black Screen When Entering BIOS
Sometimes you successfully enter BIOS but see a black screen. This often happens with certain monitor types:
- Try turning your monitor off and back on
- Switch to a different display output (HDMI vs DisplayPort)
- Connect to a TV temporarily
- Reset display settings by clearing CMOS
Understanding ASRock BIOS Boot Menu
The asrock bios boot menu (accessed with F11) differs from the main BIOS setup:
Boot Menu (F11):
- Quick, one-time boot device selection
- Doesn’t change permanent settings
- Perfect for booting from USB drives
- Returns to normal boot order after restart
BIOS Setup (F2/Del):
- Full system configuration options
- Permanent changes to settings
- Boot order, overclocking, hardware config
- Requires saving changes before exit
Advanced Solutions for Stubborn Cases
Force BIOS Entry Through Windows
When dealing with persistent issues:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Type: shutdown /r /fw /t 0
- Press Enter
This command forces Windows to restart directly into UEFI firmware settings.
Hardware-Based Solutions
If software methods fail:
Remove Boot Drives:
- Disconnect all SATA cables from drives
- The system will fail to boot and enter BIOS
- Reconnect drives after making changes
Use CMOS Reset Jumper:
- Find the CLR_CMOS jumper on your motherboard
- Move jumper to reset position for 10 seconds
- Return to normal position and boot
Specific ASRock Model Considerations
Different ASRock series have unique quirks:
B550/B650 Boards:
- May have video signal issues in BIOS
- Try different display outputs
- Update to latest BIOS version
Z690/Z790 Boards:
- Support both Legacy and UEFI modes
- Check CSM settings if having issues
- Fast Boot is more aggressive
Older Boards (Pre-2018):
- Might only support F2, not Delete
- PS/2 keyboards work more reliably
- BIOS updates can fix detection issues
Best Practices for BIOS Access
To avoid future problems:
- Disable Ultra Fast Boot until you’re sure all settings are correct
- Keep Fast Boot on “Fast” not “Ultra Fast” for easier access
- Save BIOS profiles before enabling fast boot features
- Update BIOS regularly for better compatibility
- Document your settings before making major changes
Common BIOS Tasks After Entry
Once you’re in BIOS, here are common tasks:
Change Boot Order:
- Navigate to the Boot menu
- Use +/- keys to reorder devices
- Save with F10
Enable XMP/DOCP:
- Find in OC Tweaker or the Advanced menu
- Select your memory profile
- Improves RAM performance
Update BIOS:
- Use Instant Flash utility
- Have BIOS file on a FAT32 USB drive
- Never interrupt the process
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I enter BIOS even when pressing F2?
This usually happens because Ultra Fast Boot is enabled, which skips keyboard initialization during startup. Your keyboard literally can’t send the F2 signal fast enough. The solution is to either use the Windows advanced startup method, clear your CMOS to reset BIOS settings, or use ASRock’s Restart to UEFI utility. Some users also find success by holding down the power button while starting up, which forces a slower boot sequence.
What’s the difference between F2 and Delete for ASRock BIOS?
Both F2 and Delete keys do the exact same thing on ASRock motherboards – they enter the BIOS setup utility. ASRock includes both options for compatibility reasons, as some keyboards or systems might have issues with one key or the other. Most newer ASRock boards respond to both keys equally well. Just use whichever one works for you, or try both if one isn’t responding.
How do I fix ASRock motherboard stuck on boot screen?
When your ASRock board gets stuck on the boot screen but won’t enter BIOS, it’s often a display signal issue rather than a true freeze. First, try cycling your monitor’s power – turn it off and back on. If that doesn’t work, switch to a different display cable or port. Many users find that clearing CMOS resolves this issue. As a last resort, disconnect all drives to force the system into BIOS due to boot failure.
Can I enter BIOS without a keyboard on ASRock?
Unfortunately, you cannot enter BIOS without a keyboard using the traditional methods. However, you can use Windows’ advanced startup options with just a mouse to restart into UEFI settings. Another option is to remove all boot drives, which forces most ASRock boards to display an error message with an option to enter setup. Some newer boards also support BIOS entry through mobile apps, though this is rare.
What is ASRock boot to UEFI and should I download it?
ASRock’s Boot to UEFI (also called Restart to UEFI) is an official utility that lets you restart directly into BIOS from Windows. It’s incredibly useful if you’ve enabled Ultra Fast Boot or have keyboard detection issues. The utility is safe, lightweight, and provided directly by ASRock. Download it from your motherboard’s support page on ASRock’s official website – it’s especially helpful for users who frequently need BIOS access.
Why does my ASRock BIOS show a black screen but the PC is running?
This frustrating issue happens when the BIOS is actually loaded but your monitor isn’t displaying the signal properly. It’s especially common with DisplayPort connections and high refresh rate monitors. The fix is usually simple: turn your monitor off and on again while in the black screen state. If that doesn’t work, try a different cable type (HDMI instead of DisplayPort) or temporarily connect to a TV. The BIOS often outputs at a resolution or refresh rate your monitor doesn’t immediately recognize.
How long should I hold the BIOS key when starting up?
You don’t need to hold the BIOS key – instead, press it repeatedly (about 2-3 times per second) starting the moment you press the power button. Keep tapping F2 or Delete until either the BIOS appears or Windows starts loading. If Windows starts, you’ve missed the window and need to try again. The key window is usually only 1-3 seconds on modern systems, which is why repeated pressing works better than holding.
Conclusion
Getting into BIOS on your ASRock motherboard doesn’t have to be frustrating. While F2 and Delete are your primary keys, having multiple backup methods ensures you’ll always have access when you need it. The most reliable approach is using the Windows advanced startup options or ASRock’s Restart to UEFI utility.
Remember to disable Ultra Fast Boot if you frequently need BIOS access. For one-time boot device selection, use F11 for the boot menu instead of changing permanent settings. With these tools and troubleshooting steps, you’ll never be locked out of your BIOS again.
