Troubleshooting Secure Boot Activation: PC Gets Stuck at BIOS Logo Post-Windows 11 Update
Upgrading to Windows 11 offers enhanced features and security, but it can sometimes introduce compatibility challenges, particularly with system firmware configurations like Secure Boot. If you’ve recently enabled Secure Boot and your PC freezes at the BIOS logo, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to resolve this issue and restore your system’s functionality.
Understanding Secure Boot and Its Importance
Secure Boot is a security feature designed to prevent unauthorized or malicious software from loading during the system startup process. It ensures that your PC boots using only trusted software, enhancing protection against rootkits and other low-level malware.
Common Causes of BIOS Freeze When Enabling Secure Boot
- Incompatible BIOS firmware
- Outdated motherboard drivers or BIOS version
- Incorrect BIOS configuration
- Hardware conflicts or issues with specific components
Given your hardware setup, including a Gigabyte B365 DS3H WiFi motherboard, an Intel Core i5-9400F CPU, and an RTX 2060 GPU, software and firmware compatibility are potential factors influencing the boot process.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Update Your BIOS Firmware
Why: Motherboard BIOS updates often include improved compatibility with newer operating systems like Windows 11 and support for Secure Boot.
How:
– Visit the Gigabyte Support Download Center
– Download the latest BIOS version compatible with your motherboard.
– Follow Gigabyte’s official instructions to update your BIOS safely.
2. Clear BIOS Settings and Reset to Defaults
Why: Misconfigured BIOS settings can cause startup issues after enabling Secure Boot.
How:
– Enter BIOS setup during startup (usually by pressing Delete or F2 during POST).
– Locate the option to “Load Defaults” or “Reset to Default Settings.”
– Save and exit BIOS.
– Try enabling Secure Boot again.
3. Verify Compatibility and Secure Boot Settings
Why: Ensuring your system meets the prerequisites for Secure Boot is crucial.
How:
– Ensure you are using UEFI firmware mode, not Legacy BIOS.
– Disable Compatibility Support Module (CSM) if enabled, as Secure Boot requires UEFI mode.
– In BIOS, navigate to Boot Options and select UEFI mode.
– Enable Secure Boot
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