What is how to enable secure boot?

Enabling Secure Boot is a process that helps ensure that only trusted software is loaded during the boot process of your computer. The exact steps vary depending on your computer's manufacturer and UEFI/BIOS version, but here's a general outline:

  1. Access UEFI/BIOS Settings: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key during startup (usually Delete, F2, F12, or Esc) to enter the UEFI/BIOS setup. The key to press is often displayed briefly during the boot sequence.

  2. Locate Secure Boot Settings: Navigate through the UEFI/BIOS menus to find the Secure%20Boot settings. This is often located under the "Boot," "Security," or "Authentication" sections.

  3. Set Secure Boot Mode: Within the Secure%20Boot settings, you may find options like "Secure Boot Mode" or similar wording. If it's set to "Disabled" or "Legacy," change it to "Enabled" or "UEFI."

  4. Set Boot to UEFI: Ensure the boot mode is set to UEFI and not Legacy or CSM (Compatibility Support Module). CSM must be disabled for Secure Boot to function correctly. You may need to specifically select UEFI boot sources.

  5. Check Platform Key (PK) State: The Platform%20Key (PK) is a critical component of Secure Boot. Ensure a PK is installed. If no PK is present, Secure Boot may not function correctly. The option to install default Secure Boot keys might be available.

  6. Save and Exit: After making the changes, save the settings and exit the UEFI/BIOS setup. Your computer will then restart.

  7. Verify Secure Boot is Enabled: After restarting, you can verify that Secure%20Boot is enabled through system information tools within your operating system. In Windows, you can check it in "System Information" (msinfo32.exe).

Important Considerations:

  • Operating System Support: Secure Boot requires an operating system that supports UEFI and Secure Boot, such as Windows 8 or later, or certain Linux distributions.
  • Potential Issues: Enabling Secure Boot can sometimes cause issues with older hardware or operating systems that are not fully compatible.
  • Disabling CSM/Legacy: Disabling CSM can prevent older operating systems or boot loaders from working. Make sure you have a UEFI-compatible operating system installed before doing so.
  • Manufacturer's Documentation: Always consult your computer's or motherboard's manual for specific instructions on enabling Secure Boot. Each manufacturer's UEFI/BIOS interface can be slightly different.