Question Windows 11 clean install

[t4d]

I am attempting a clean fresh install of Windows 11. I made the required USB to do the clean install.

Here is the problem: I am trying to access the boot order setting in the BIOS, but I am not able to get to the setup. I'm running an ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming 4 (AM4), and the manual says to press either the F2 key or the DEL key during the POST. However, the computer seems to ignore both of those keys and just boots right into Windows. I have already tried another keyboard, but got the same result. Always boots right into Windows.

Please help troubleshoot this. I'm wondering if it will be necessary to format the C: drive, and then try again to enter the BIOS setup. I would rather not do that unless it it the best way to proceed. Thanks..............all suggestions appreciated.

 

[bba-tcg]

Try hitting F11 repeatedly right before the Asrock boot screen appears. You should get a boot menu where you can pick your boot device.

 

[WelshBloke]

Is fast boot enabled in windows? That can be a pita if you're trying to get to the bios.

You should be able to tell windows to boot to the bios. Settings>system>recovery>advanced start up
Should boot to the windows blue screen. Pick troubleshoot>advanced options> firmware settings

Or something like that.

 

[tcsenter]

Fast boot is enable in BIOS. Just start pressing (repeatedly) the DEL or F2 key from the moment after power on, even before any display appears. It will get in. Disable Fast boot and/or increase the delay time to enter setup in BIOS -> Boot Options -> SETUP PROMPT TIMEOUT and enter a number for seconds. I always change this to 2 or 3

 

[mikeymikec]

I've got a very handy USB trackball that lights up when it has USB connectivity, so the moment the USB controller initialises during boot-up (ie. trackball lights up), I start hitting the appropriate hotkey repeatedly.

Another tell is the caps lock key / other lock keys on the keyboard, as soon as you get a flash, it's connected.