Skip to main content

Disabling Secure Boot

What is Secure Boot?

Secure Boot is a security feature that ensures your computer boots using only software that is trusted by the manufacturer. While this feature enhances security, it can sometimes prevent certain applications from running properly. Disabling Secure Boot might be necessary for some software to function correctly.

Why Disable Secure Boot?​

Some reasons to disable Secure Boot include:

  • Installing certain drivers or software
  • Running specific applications that require low-level system access
  • Using custom or modified system components
  • Installing alternative operating systems

Video Tutorial​

Disabling Secure Boot by Manufacturer​

General Steps​

  1. Enter BIOS/UEFI Settings:

    • Restart your computer
    • During startup, press the appropriate key repeatedly:
      • Most common keys: F2, Del, F12, Esc
      • Keep pressing until you enter BIOS

  2. Navigate to Secure Boot Settings:

    • Look for "Security" or "Boot" settings
    • Find "Secure Boot" option
    • Set it to "Disabled"

  3. Save and Exit:

    • Save changes (usually F10)
    • Exit BIOS
    • Allow system to restart

Manufacturer-Specific Instructions​

HP Computers​

  1. Press F10 during startup
  2. Navigate to "Security"
  3. Select "Secure Boot Configuration"
  4. Set "Secure Boot" to "Disabled"
  5. Save and exit (F10)

Dell Computers​

  1. Press F2 during startup
  2. Go to "Security" settings
  3. Find "Secure Boot"
  4. Change to "Disabled"
  5. Save changes and exit

Lenovo Computers​

  1. Press F1 or Fn + F1 during startup
  2. Go to "Security" menu
  3. Select "Secure Boot"
  4. Set to "Disabled"
  5. Save and exit (F10)

ASUS Computers​

  1. Press Del or F2 during startup
  2. Go to "Boot" menu
  3. Find "Secure Boot Control"
  4. Set to "Disabled"
  5. Save changes and exit (F10)

MSI Computers​

  1. Press Del during startup
  2. Navigate to "Security" or "Boot" menu
  3. Find "Secure Boot"
  4. Set to "Disabled"
  5. Save and exit

Common Issues and Solutions​

Can't Find Secure Boot Option​

If you can't find the Secure Boot option:

  1. Look under:
    • Security
    • Boot
    • Authentication
    • Advanced Settings
  2. Check if UEFI Boot is enabled
  3. Update BIOS if necessary

Unable to Disable Secure Boot​

If you can't disable Secure Boot:

  1. Reset BIOS to default settings
  2. Try disabling again
  3. Update BIOS to latest version
  4. Check if Windows settings are blocking changes
Important Notes
  1. Record your current BIOS settings before making changes
  2. Don't make other BIOS changes unless necessary
  3. Ensure laptop is plugged in during BIOS changes
  4. Some Windows features may require re-enabling Secure Boot

Verifying Secure Boot Status​

In Windows​

  1. Press Windows + R
  2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter
  3. Look for "Secure Boot State" under System Summary
  4. Should show "Off" if successfully disabled

In PowerShell​

  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator
  2. Run command: 
    Confirm-SecureBootUEFI
  3. Should return "False" if disabled

Restoring Secure Boot​

If you need to re-enable Secure Boot:

  1. Enter BIOS settings again
  2. Navigate to Secure Boot option
  3. Set to "Enabled"
  4. Save and exit
  5. Windows may require additional verification

System Requirements​

  • UEFI-based system
  • Administrator access
  • Knowledge of your system's BIOS key
  • Backup of important data (recommended)

For additional support, consult your computer manufacturer's documentation or contact our support team.