Start Windows PC automatically - how it works

You can start a Windows PC automatically if your BIOS has a corresponding function. You can read how to do this in this practical tip.

Activate autostart in BIOS

Before starting Windows, you can set an auto-start timer in the BIOS.

1. You can access the BIOS by pressing the key shown at the bottom of the screen before Windows starts. This varies from motherboard to motherboard. The keys can be DEL, DEL, F12, F11, F1 or F10. You can find more detailed information here.
2. Depending on the BIOS, you will find a function here that sets the autostart. This is probably found under "BOOT", "ADVANCED" or similar (compare screenshot) and is called "RTC Powered Start" or "RTC Power Alarm". ATTENTION: If you have a newer BIOS version (UEFI), you can operate the BIOS with the mouse. If this is not the case, you only have to navigate with the keyboard.
3. Here you have the option of making various settings regarding the auto start. For example, you can have the computer start up to the second at a specific time, or you can start it every day at a specific time.
4. After you have made your settings (they could look something like the photo), you still need to save your settings. To do this, go to "Exit Saving Changes" in the menu. Your PC will now start again.

This practical tip was tested with Windows 8.1. A UEFI BIOS was used. You can read what the warning tones in the BIOS mean in this practical tip.