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Changing the boot order on your Windows 8.1 computer allows you to prioritize which devices the system should boot from. This can be useful if you want to boot from a USB drive, DVD, or any other external device. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to change the boot order on a Windows 8.1 system.
Step 1: Start by accessing the BIOS settings. Restart your computer and press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS setup. This is typically the "Delete," "F2," or "F10" key, but it may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer. Look for the on-screen prompts during the boot process to identify the correct key.
Step 2: Once you are in the BIOS setup, navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Options" section using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
Step 3: In the "Boot" section, you will find a list of available devices that your computer can boot from. Use the arrow keys to highlight the device you want to prioritize and move it to the top of the list.
Step 4: To change the boot order, use the designated key (usually "+" or "-") to move the selected device up or down in the sequence. Ensure that the device you want to boot from is at the top of the list.
Step 5: Once you have rearranged the boot order according to your preferences, save and exit the BIOS settings. Look for the option to "Save and Exit" or something similar. Press the corresponding key to save the changes and exit the BIOS.
Step 6: Your computer will now boot according to the new boot order you have set. If the device at the top of the list is not available or does not contain a bootable operating system, the system will move on to the next device in the sequence.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Gives you control over the boot process and the ability to prioritize different devices. | 1. Modifying the BIOS settings incorrectly can lead to system instability or failure. |
| 2. Allows you to boot from external devices like USB drives or DVDs, which can be useful for troubleshooting or installing operating systems. | 2. Changing the boot order may require advanced technical knowledge and could void warranty if not done properly. |
| 3. Provides flexibility in choosing the primary boot device for your system. | 3. Inappropriate changes to the boot order may prevent the system from booting properly. |
Video Tutorial: How do I fix the wrong boot order?
What is the F key for HP boot menu?
For HP computers, the F key used to access the boot menu may vary depending on the specific model and BIOS version. However, based on the widespread convention, many HP computers use the F9 key to access the boot menu. Here are the steps to access the boot menu on an HP computer:
1. Start or restart your HP computer.
2. As soon as the computer begins to boot up, repeatedly press the F9 key until the boot menu appears.
3. Once the boot menu is displayed, you can navigate using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
4. Select the desired boot device or operating system from the menu using the arrow keys, and then press Enter to boot from it.
Note: It’s important to keep in mind that the specific key for accessing the boot menu may vary depending on the model, so it’s advisable to consult the documentation or support resources specific to your HP computer model for accurate and updated information.
How to make Windows 8.1 boot from USB?
To make Windows 8.1 boot from a USB, you can follow these steps:
1. Prepare a USB drive: Connect a USB drive with sufficient storage capacity (at least 8GB) to your computer.
2. Create a Windows 8.1 bootable USB: Download the Windows 8.1 ISO file from the official Microsoft website. Use a reliable tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive from the ISO file. Follow the instructions provided by the tool to create the bootable USB.
3. Access the BIOS or UEFI settings: Restart your computer and access the BIOS or UEFI settings. The key combination to enter these settings may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer, but usually, it’s one of the function keys (e.g., F2, F12), the ESC key, or the DELETE key. Check your computer’s manual or look for on-screen prompts at startup to determine the correct key.
4. Change the boot order: Once you are in the BIOS or UEFI settings, navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Order" section. Set the USB drive as the primary boot device or prioritize USB booting over other options.
5. Save changes and exit: After configuring the boot order, save the changes made in the BIOS or UEFI settings and exit.
6. Boot from the USB: Restart your computer. It should now boot from the Windows 8.1 bootable USB. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the installation process.
Note: Keep in mind that these steps may vary slightly depending on your computer’s manufacturer and BIOS or UEFI version. It’s always a good idea to consult your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.
Does F8 work on Windows 8?
Yes, F8 does work on Windows 8. Here’s why:
1. F8 is a key that has historically been used to access advanced startup options in Windows operating systems. These options include "Safe Mode," which loads Windows with only the necessary drivers and services, allowing users to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
2. In most versions of Windows, including Windows 8, pressing F8 during the boot process will bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. This menu provides various troubleshooting and recovery options.
3. However, there is one important thing to note. Starting from Windows 8, Microsoft introduced a new feature called "Fast Startup" or "Fast Boot," which aims to reduce the time it takes for a computer to start up. This feature may cause the usual F8 key press timing to be missed, as the boot process is accelerated.
4. To ensure that F8 works properly on Windows 8, it might be necessary to disable the Fast Startup feature. Here are the steps to do so:
a. Open the Control Panel by pressing the Windows key + X and selecting "Control Panel" from the menu.
b. In the Control Panel, navigate to "Power Options."
c. Click on "Choose what the power buttons do" or a similar option related to power settings.
d. Scroll down to the "Shutdown settings" section and uncheck the box that says "Turn on fast startup."
e. Save the changes and exit the Control Panel.
5. After disabling Fast Startup, the F8 key should work as expected during the boot process on Windows 8, allowing access to the Advanced Boot Options menu.
It’s worth mentioning that this information is based on the assumption that F8 and the functionality of the Advanced Boot Options menu remain unchanged in Windows 8. In the unlikely event of Microsoft altering or removing this feature in newer updates, it’s essential to refer to the official Windows documentation or seek up-to-date information to ensure accurate guidance.
How do I force the boot menu to open?
To force the boot menu to open, you can follow these steps:
1. Restart your computer: Begin by restarting your computer. You can either click on the Windows Start menu and select the "Restart" option, or you can press the Windows key on your keyboard, followed by the power button, and then choose the "Restart" option.
2. Access the boot menu: As your computer restarts, pay attention to the initial boot screen. Typically, there will be a specific key or keys that you need to press to access the boot menu. Common keys include F8, F11, F12, or the Esc key. The appropriate key to access the boot menu may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer and model, so it’s best to consult your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s support website for the exact key to press.
3. Press the key to access the boot menu: Once you identify the key to access the boot menu, press it repeatedly during the boot process. If you’re quick enough, this should bring up the boot menu on your screen.
4. Select the desired boot option: Once the boot menu appears, you can use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate through the available options. The boot menu might include options such as booting from your hard drive, booting from a CD/DVD drive, or booting from a USB device. Select the option that suits your needs, and then press Enter to confirm your choice.
5. Allow the system to boot: After selecting the desired boot option, your computer will begin to boot from the selected device or drive. At this point, you should allow the system to complete the boot process, and it will start up according to your chosen option.
Remember, accessing the boot menu can be specific to each computer manufacturer and model, so the exact steps may vary slightly. It’s always a good idea to refer to your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s support website for specific instructions related to your device.
How do I change the boot order in Windows 8.1 HP?
To change the boot order in Windows 8.1 on an HP machine, follow these steps:
Step 1: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. The key to access the BIOS or UEFI settings may vary depending on your HP computer model. Some common keys include F2, F10, or the Esc key. You may need to consult your computer’s documentation or the HP support website to determine the correct key for your specific model.
Step 2: Once you are in the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Options" section. The exact wording may vary.
Step 3: In the boot options, you should see a list of devices. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to highlight the device you want to set as the first boot option.
Step 4: Once the desired device is selected, use the designated key (usually F5 or F6) to move it up or down in the boot sequence order. Some BIOS/UEFI interfaces allow you to rearrange the boot order by dragging and dropping the devices.
Step 5: After adjusting the boot order, save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. Typically, you can do this by pressing the designated key (usually F10) to save and exit.
Step 6: Your computer will now boot from the device you set as the first boot option. If that device is a bootable storage device (such as a USB drive or DVD), the computer will attempt to boot from it before moving on to other devices.
Note: It’s crucial to be cautious when making changes in the BIOS/UEFI settings, as incorrect configurations can cause your computer not to boot or other issues. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the changes you are making or seek assistance from HP support or a knowledgeable professional if needed.
How do I select boot device in Windows 8?
To select a boot device in Windows 8, follow these steps:
1. Start or restart your computer and quickly press the specific key to access the boot menu. The specific key depends on your computer manufacturer but is usually one of the Function keys (F1, F2, etc.) or the Escape key (ESC). Some common keys are F12, F10, or ESC.
2. Once you press the correct key, you will enter the boot menu screen. This screen will display a list of devices or storage options you can choose from to boot your computer.
3. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate through the list and highlight the desired boot device. The options might include your hard drive (usually labeled "Windows Boot Manager" or similar), CD/DVD drive, USB drive, or network boot options.
4. Once you have highlighted the desired boot device, press the Enter key to select it.
5. Your computer will then start booting from the selected device. If the device contains a valid bootable operating system, it will load and start.
It’s important to note that these steps may vary slightly depending on your computer’s manufacturer and the specific BIOS or UEFI version you are using. If you are unsure which key to press or encounter any difficulties, referring to your computer’s documentation or contacting the manufacturer’s support is recommended.
Remember to save any changes made in the boot menu if prompted to ensure they are applied during subsequent system startups.
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Select the desired boot device or operating system from the menu using the arrow keys, and then press Enter to boot from it.nnNote: It’s important to keep in mind that the specific key for accessing the boot menu may vary depending on the model, so it’s advisable to consult the documentation or support resources specific to your HP computer model for accurate and updated information."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How to make Windows 8.1 boot from USB?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To make Windows 8.1 boot from a USB, you can follow these steps:nn1. Prepare a USB drive: Connect a USB drive with sufficient storage capacity (at least 8GB) to your computer.nn2. Create a Windows 8.1 bootable USB: Download the Windows 8.1 ISO file from the official Microsoft website. Use a reliable tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive from the ISO file. Follow the instructions provided by the tool to create the bootable USB.nn3. Access the BIOS or UEFI settings: Restart your computer and access the BIOS or UEFI settings. The key combination to enter these settings may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer, but usually, it’s one of the function keys (e.g., F2, F12), the ESC key, or the DELETE key. Check your computer’s manual or look for on-screen prompts at startup to determine the correct key.nn4. Change the boot order: Once you are in the BIOS or UEFI settings, navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Order" section. Set the USB drive as the primary boot device or prioritize USB booting over other options.nn5. Save changes and exit: After configuring the boot order, save the changes made in the BIOS or UEFI settings and exit.nn6. Boot from the USB: Restart your computer. It should now boot from the Windows 8.1 bootable USB. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the installation process.nnNote: Keep in mind that these steps may vary slightly depending on your computer’s manufacturer and BIOS or UEFI version. It’s always a good idea to consult your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Does F8 work on Windows 8?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, F8 does work on Windows 8. Here’s why:nn1. F8 is a key that has historically been used to access advanced startup options in Windows operating systems. These options include "Safe Mode," which loads Windows with only the necessary drivers and services, allowing users to troubleshoot and resolve issues.nn2. In most versions of Windows, including Windows 8, pressing F8 during the boot process will bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. This menu provides various troubleshooting and recovery options.nn3. However, there is one important thing to note. Starting from Windows 8, Microsoft introduced a new feature called "Fast Startup" or "Fast Boot," which aims to reduce the time it takes for a computer to start up. This feature may cause the usual F8 key press timing to be missed, as the boot process is accelerated.nn4. To ensure that F8 works properly on Windows 8, it might be necessary to disable the Fast Startup feature. Here are the steps to do so:nn a. Open the Control Panel by pressing the Windows key + X and selecting "Control Panel" from the menu.nn b. In the Control Panel, navigate to "Power Options."nn c. Click on "Choose what the power buttons do" or a similar option related to power settings.nn d. Scroll down to the "Shutdown settings" section and uncheck the box that says "Turn on fast startup."nn e. Save the changes and exit the Control Panel.nn5. After disabling Fast Startup, the F8 key should work as expected during the boot process on Windows 8, allowing access to the Advanced Boot Options menu.nnIt’s worth mentioning that this information is based on the assumption that F8 and the functionality of the Advanced Boot Options menu remain unchanged in Windows 8. In the unlikely event of Microsoft altering or removing this feature in newer updates, it’s essential to refer to the official Windows documentation or seek up-to-date information to ensure accurate guidance."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I force the boot menu to open?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To force the boot menu to open, you can follow these steps:nn1. Restart your computer: Begin by restarting your computer. You can either click on the Windows Start menu and select the "Restart" option, or you can press the Windows key on your keyboard, followed by the power button, and then choose the "Restart" option.nn2. Access the boot menu: As your computer restarts, pay attention to the initial boot screen. Typically, there will be a specific key or keys that you need to press to access the boot menu. Common keys include F8, F11, F12, or the Esc key. The appropriate key to access the boot menu may vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer and model, so it’s best to consult your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s support website for the exact key to press.nn3. Press the key to access the boot menu: Once you identify the key to access the boot menu, press it repeatedly during the boot process. If you’re quick enough, this should bring up the boot menu on your screen.nn4. Select the desired boot option: Once the boot menu appears, you can use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate through the available options. The boot menu might include options such as booting from your hard drive, booting from a CD/DVD drive, or booting from a USB device. Select the option that suits your needs, and then press Enter to confirm your choice.nn5. Allow the system to boot: After selecting the desired boot option, your computer will begin to boot from the selected device or drive. At this point, you should allow the system to complete the boot process, and it will start up according to your chosen option.nnRemember, accessing the boot menu can be specific to each computer manufacturer and model, so the exact steps may vary slightly. It’s always a good idea to refer to your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s support website for specific instructions related to your device."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I change the boot order in Windows 8.1 HP?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To change the boot order in Windows 8.1 on an HP machine, follow these steps:nnStep 1: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. The key to access the BIOS or UEFI settings may vary depending on your HP computer model. Some common keys include F2, F10, or the Esc key. You may need to consult your computer’s documentation or the HP support website to determine the correct key for your specific model.nnStep 2: Once you are in the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Options" section. The exact wording may vary.nnStep 3: In the boot options, you should see a list of devices. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to highlight the device you want to set as the first boot option.nnStep 4: Once the desired device is selected, use the designated key (usually F5 or F6) to move it up or down in the boot sequence order. Some BIOS/UEFI interfaces allow you to rearrange the boot order by dragging and dropping the devices.nnStep 5: After adjusting the boot order, save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. Typically, you can do this by pressing the designated key (usually F10) to save and exit.nnStep 6: Your computer will now boot from the device you set as the first boot option. If that device is a bootable storage device (such as a USB drive or DVD), the computer will attempt to boot from it before moving on to other devices.nnNote: It’s crucial to be cautious when making changes in the BIOS/UEFI settings, as incorrect configurations can cause your computer not to boot or other issues. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the changes you are making or seek assistance from HP support or a knowledgeable professional if needed."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I select boot device in Windows 8?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To select a boot device in Windows 8, follow these steps:nn1. Start or restart your computer and quickly press the specific key to access the boot menu. The specific key depends on your computer manufacturer but is usually one of the Function keys (F1, F2, etc.) or the Escape key (ESC). Some common keys are F12, F10, or ESC.nn2. Once you press the correct key, you will enter the boot menu screen. This screen will display a list of devices or storage options you can choose from to boot your computer.nn3. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate through the list and highlight the desired boot device. The options might include your hard drive (usually labeled "Windows Boot Manager" or similar), CD/DVD drive, USB drive, or network boot options.nn4. Once you have highlighted the desired boot device, press the Enter key to select it.nn5. Your computer will then start booting from the selected device. If the device contains a valid bootable operating system, it will load and start.nnIt’s important to note that these steps may vary slightly depending on your computer’s manufacturer and the specific BIOS or UEFI version you are using. If you are unsure which key to press or encounter any difficulties, referring to your computer’s documentation or contacting the manufacturer’s support is recommended.nnRemember to save any changes made in the boot menu if prompted to ensure they are applied during subsequent system startups."}}]}
