How To Change Boot Order Windows 10

Changing the boot order in Windows 10 can be a crucial step in troubleshooting or upgrading your computer. Did you know that the boot order determines the order in which the operating system and other bootable devices are accessed when your computer starts up? This can have a significant impact on the overall performance and functionality of your system. Understanding how to change the boot order in Windows 10 is essential for optimizing your computer's startup process.

To change the boot order in Windows 10, you need to access the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) settings. These settings allow you to modify the order in which your computer looks for bootable devices, such as hard drives, USB drives, or DVDs. By prioritizing certain devices over others, you can ensure that your computer boots from the desired source. This can be particularly useful when you need to boot from a different operating system or perform a clean installation of Windows 10. By following a few simple steps, you can easily change the boot order and customize your computer's startup process to meet your specific needs.

Understanding Boot Order in Windows 10

The boot order in Windows 10 refers to the sequence in which the computer's operating system is loaded when it starts up. By default, Windows 10 is set to boot from the internal hard drive, but there may be scenarios where you need to change the boot order. This could include situations where you want to boot from a USB drive, DVD, or a different hard drive. Changing the boot order allows you to prioritize different devices and choose where the system boots from.

In this guide, we will discuss how to change the boot order in Windows 10. We'll cover both the BIOS/UEFI method and the Windows 10 advanced startup menu method. These methods are applicable to both desktop and laptop computers running Windows 10. So, let's dive in and explore the different ways you can change the boot order on your Windows 10 machine.

Changing Boot Order in BIOS/UEFI

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is responsible for loading the hardware settings and initial software that starts the computer. You can access the BIOS/UEFI settings on your computer by pressing a specific key during startup. The key to access the BIOS/UEFI settings may vary depending on your computer manufacturer, but commonly used keys include F2, F10, and Del.

To change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI, follow the steps below:

• Start your computer and press the appropriate key to access the BIOS/UEFI settings. The key to press is usually displayed on the manufacturer's logo screen during startup. If you miss the opportunity, restart your computer and try again.
• Navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Order" section in the BIOS/UEFI settings. The exact name and location may vary depending on your computer's manufacturer.
• Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to highlight the device you want to boot from first.
• Press the "+" or "-" keys to move the selected device to the top or bottom of the boot order list.
• Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. You may need to refer to the on-screen instructions or consult your computer's manual for the specific key or combination of keys to save and exit.
• Restart your computer, and it should now boot from the device you prioritized in the boot order.

Note that the BIOS/UEFI settings can be different for each computer model, so the above steps provide a general guideline. Consult your computer's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions on changing the boot order on your particular device.

Changing Boot Order with Windows 10 Advanced Startup Menu

If you're unable to access the BIOS/UEFI settings or prefer a simpler method, Windows 10 provides an advanced startup menu that allows you to change the boot order without entering the BIOS/UEFI. Here's how:

1. Click on the "Start" button in the Windows 10 taskbar and select "Settings" (the gear icon) in the left sidebar.

2. In the Settings window, click on "Update & Security."

3. Select the "Recovery" tab from the left sidebar and click on the "Restart now" button under the "Advanced startup" section.

4. Your computer will restart and display the Windows 10 advanced startup menu. Click on "Troubleshoot."

5. In the Troubleshoot menu, select "Advanced options" and click on "UEFI Firmware Settings."

6. Click on the "Restart" button, and your computer will restart and take you directly to the BIOS/UEFI settings.

7. In the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate to the "Boot" or "Boot Order" section and adjust the boot order according to your preference.

8. Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings.

9. Your computer will restart and boot from the device you prioritized in the boot order.

Using EasyBCD to Change Boot Order

EasyBCD is a third-party software that enables you to customize the boot process on Windows 10. It provides an easy-to-use interface for modifying the boot order and managing multiple operating systems on your computer. Here's how you can use EasyBCD to change the boot order:

1. Download and install EasyBCD from the official website (https://neosmart.net/EasyBCD/).

2. Launch EasyBCD and click on the "Bootloader Setup" button in the main window.

3. In the bootloader settings, navigate to the "Default Boot Device" section and select the device you want to set as the default boot option.

4. Click on the "Save Settings" button to apply the changes.

5. Restart your computer, and it should now boot from the device you set as the default boot option.

Note:

While EasyBCD provides additional flexibility in managing the boot process, it's important to note that modifying settings using third-party software carries a certain level of risk. It's recommended to create a backup of your system or consult professional assistance before making any changes.

Alternative Methods for Changing Boot Order Windows 10

In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are a few alternative ways to change the boot order in Windows 10:

Using Windows Command Prompt

You can change the boot order in Windows 10 using the Command Prompt by following these steps:

• Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting "Command Prompt (Admin)."
• Type the following command: bcdedit /default <boot entry ID> and press Enter. Replace '' with the identifier of the boot option you want to set as the default.
• Restart your computer, and it should now boot from the selected boot option.

Note:

Using the Command Prompt may require some technical knowledge, and it's crucial to ensure you enter the correct commands to avoid potential system issues. It's recommended to create a system backup or consult professional assistance before proceeding.

Changing Boot Order with Disk Management

You can also change the boot order using the Disk Management tool in Windows 10:

• Right-click on the Start button and select "Disk Management" from the context menu.
• In the Disk Management window, right-click on the disk you want to set as the boot disk and select "Mark Partition as Active."
• Restart your computer, and it should now boot from the selected disk.

Using Boot Manager

Windows 10 has a built-in Boot Manager that allows you to change the boot order without entering the BIOS/UEFI. Here's how:

1. Press the "Windows" key and "X" on your keyboard to open the Quick Access Menu.

2. Select "Command Prompt (Admin)" to open the Command Prompt.

3. In the Command Prompt window, type "shutdown.exe /r /o" and press Enter.

4. Your computer will restart and display the Windows Boot Manager.

5. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to select the operating system or device you want to boot from.

6. Press Enter to boot from the selected option.

Final Thoughts

Changing the boot order in Windows 10 allows you to prioritize different devices for startup. Whether you need to boot from a USB drive, DVD, or a different hard drive, following the methods mentioned in this guide will help you achieve the desired boot configuration. It's important to exercise caution when making changes to the boot order and consider creating system backups or seeking professional assistance if needed. With the ability to customize the boot order, you can optimize your computer's startup process to suit your specific needs.

Changing Boot Order in Windows 10

Changing the boot order in Windows 10 is essential when you want to prioritize the booting sequence of your computer. By default, Windows 10 is configured to boot from the hard drive. However, there may be times when you need to boot from a different device, such as a USB drive or a DVD. Here's how you can change the boot order:

• Start by restarting your computer. Keep pressing the appropriate key (usually F2, F10, or DEL) to enter the BIOS settings.
• In the BIOS settings, navigate to the "Boot" tab using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
• Locate the "Boot Order" option and select it.
• Use the arrow keys to rearrange the boot order according to your preference. The device you want to boot from first should be at the top of the list.
• Save the changes and exit the BIOS settings. Your computer will now boot from the selected device.

Changing the boot order in Windows 10 allows you to easily switch between different bootable devices, giving you more flexibility and control over your system's startup process.

### Key Takeaways: How to Change Boot Order Windows 10

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about changing the boot order in Windows 10:

1. How do I access the BIOS settings in Windows 10?

To access the BIOS settings in Windows 10, follow these steps:

a. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS mode by pressing the designated key (usually F2, F10, or Del) during the boot process.

b. Once in the BIOS settings, navigate to the "Boot" tab using the arrow keys and press Enter.

c. From the "Boot" tab, you can change the boot order by selecting the desired boot device and using the designated key (usually +/-) to move it up or down in the list.

d. Save your changes and exit the BIOS settings. Your computer will now boot from the chosen device.

2. Why would I want to change the boot order in Windows 10?

There are several reasons why you might want to change the boot order in Windows 10:

a. To prioritize booting from a specific device, such as a USB drive or DVD, to install or repair an operating system.

b. To troubleshoot booting issues by trying different boot devices.

c. To secure your computer by disabling booting from external devices, thereby preventing unauthorized access.

3. Can I change the boot order without accessing the BIOS settings?

No, you cannot change the boot order without accessing the BIOS settings. The boot order is a BIOS-level setting that determines the sequence in which your computer looks for an operating system to boot from.

However, some computers have a "Boot Menu" option that allows you to temporarily override the boot order without changing the BIOS settings. This menu can typically be accessed by pressing a specific key (such as F12 or Esc) during the boot process.

4. Will changing the boot order affect my files and data?

No, changing the boot order will not affect your files and data. The boot order only determines the sequence in which your computer searches for an operating system to boot from. Your files and data will remain intact.

However, it's always a good practice to back up your important files before making any changes to the boot order, just to be safe.

5. Can I revert back to the default boot order?

Yes, you can revert back to the default boot order in Windows 10. To do this:

a. Access the BIOS settings using the steps mentioned in the first question.

b. Navigate to the "Boot" tab and select the "Restore Defaults" or similar option.

c. Save your changes and exit the BIOS settings. Your computer will now boot using the default boot order.

Changing the boot order in Windows 10 can be a simple process that allows you to prioritize which device your computer starts up from. By following a few easy steps, you can ensure that your computer boots from the desired device, whether it's a USB drive, DVD, or a different hard drive. Start by accessing the BIOS menu by restarting your computer and pressing the designated key. Once in the BIOS menu, navigate to the boot order settings and rearrange the devices according to your preferences. Remember to save your changes before exiting the BIOS menu.

By understanding how to change the boot order in Windows 10, you gain greater control over your computer's startup process. Whether you need to boot from a different device for troubleshooting purposes or want to prioritize a specific device for convenience, the ability to change the boot order provides flexibility and customization options for your system. Just remember to be cautious when making changes in the BIOS menu and to save your changes before exiting. With these steps in mind, you can confidently modify the boot order in Windows 10 to suit your needs.