How to Enter BIOS or the Boot Menu on a Lenovo Computer
Beginner
Lenovo
Applies to: Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 11
Lenovo
Applies to: Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 11
The key varies by model more than most brands — here's how to figure out which one yours uses.
Before you start: save any open work and note down what you were doing when the problem started — that context helps if you need to search further or ask for help.
- Restart or power on the Lenovo, and immediately start tapping F1 repeatedly — this is the BIOS Setup key on many Lenovo models, particularly ThinkPads.
- If F1 doesn't work, try F2 instead — Lenovo splits between these two keys depending on the specific model and keyboard layout, and there's no single rule for which one a given machine uses.
- For the one-time boot menu, try F12 instead of F1 or F2.
- Some Lenovo laptops have a small physical Novo button — a tiny recessed button near the power button, sometimes needing a pin or paperclip to press — that opens a menu with BIOS, boot device, and system recovery options, independent of the keyboard entirely.
- If none of the F-keys respond, check whether Fn+F1, Fn+F2, or Fn+F12 is needed instead, since Lenovo's "Hotkey Mode" BIOS setting can change whether the Fn modifier is required.
Still not fixed? Send us the details and we'll help you dig further, or browse related guides in Lenovo.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my ThinkPad uses F1 or F2 for BIOS?
There's no universal rule — if F1 doesn't work, try F2 immediately after on the next restart. Whichever one brings up BIOS Setup is the one your specific model uses.
What is the Novo button and where is it exactly?
It's a small recessed button near the power button, present on many Lenovo laptops, often needing a pin or paperclip tip to press since it's designed to avoid being triggered accidentally.
Related guides
Lenovo Vantage and Lenovo Diagnostics Explained
Two related but distinct tools — one runs inside Windows, one runs independently of it.
Where to Get Official Lenovo Drivers (and Avoid Fake Ones)
Lenovo Vantage and Lenovo's own support site — not a third-party "driver updater" tool.
How to Factory Reset a Lenovo Using OneKey Recovery
A recovery environment built into the machine, independent of Windows — useful when Windows itself won't start.