Enable UEFI on Acer

Why enable UEFI mode?

UEFI mode is the newer more powerful version of BIOS. Most modern systems are able to boot in UEFI mode.

UEFI is required to use features like Secure Boot, which is becoming increasingly required by software and Windows.

Specifics

This guide was created with newer Acer motherboards. Steps might vary slightly based on your system specs, so make sure to Google <Your motherboard> enable UEFI if this guide does not help you get everything going.

Your system drive must also be set to GPT instead of MBR. If you’re not sure what your system drive is, or need to convert it: See Convert MBR drives to GPT.

Enabling UEFI mode on Acer Motherboards

Assuming you’re using a GPT drive, let’s get going!

Reboot into firmware settings

If you’re logged into Windows:

1. Open this guide on another device, as your system will only show firmware settings when you’re in the UEFI/BIOS settings screen.
2. Press Start or Windows and search for CMD. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
3. Type: shutdown /r /fw and press Enter to reboot your system directly into your firmware settings.

Alternatively:

1. Reboot your system as normal.
2. While booting: when you see your motherboard’s logo there is usually text below saying Press F2, F12, Delete or any other combination of buttons to enter Settings, BIOS or UEFI. Press that key while still on this screen.
3. You should now be in your BIOS/UEFI settings ready to adjust your configuration.

Enable UEFI mode

This is displayed slightly differently - even from motherboard to motherboard from the same manufacturer.

1. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Boot tab at the top of your screen
   
2. Select Boot Mode and set it to UEFI instead of Legacy Mode.
3. Use Right arrow to get to the Exit tab. Choose Exit Saving Changes, or hit F10 to accomplish the same thing.
   

You should now boot into Windows with UEFI mode enabled!