How to Boot Dvd in Eufi Mode Lenovo

This guide walks you through how to boot DVD in UEFI mode on Lenovo computers, ensuring compatibility with modern firmware. You’ll learn to access BIOS, configure boot settings, and troubleshoot common problems for a successful installation.

Key Takeaways

• Access UEFI Firmware Settings: Use the Novo button or Windows recovery to enter UEFI on Lenovo devices.
• Disable Secure Boot: Temporarily turn off Secure Boot to allow booting from non-certified DVDs.
• Enable Legacy Support (if needed): Some older DVDs require CSM (Compatibility Support Module) to be enabled.
• Set DVD Drive as First Boot Device: Prioritize the optical drive in the boot order for successful DVD boot.
• Verify DVD and Drive Compatibility: Ensure the DVD is bootable and the drive is functioning properly.
• Troubleshoot Common Errors: Fix issues like “No bootable device” or black screen after boot attempt.
• Re-enable Security Features: After installation, reactivate Secure Boot and reset UEFI to default for system security.

How to Boot DVD in UEFI Mode Lenovo: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re trying to install an operating system, run diagnostics, or recover your system using a DVD on a Lenovo computer, you may run into issues if your machine is set to UEFI mode. Unlike older BIOS systems, UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) offers enhanced security and faster boot times—but it can also be tricky when booting from optical media like DVDs.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to boot DVD in UEFI mode on Lenovo laptops and desktops. Whether you’re installing Windows, Linux, or running a recovery tool, we’ll cover everything from accessing the UEFI firmware to configuring boot settings and troubleshooting common problems.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently boot from a DVD on your Lenovo device, even in UEFI mode. Let’s get started!

Understanding UEFI and Why It Matters for DVD Booting

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand what UEFI is and why it affects DVD booting.

UEFI is the modern replacement for the traditional BIOS. It provides a more secure and efficient way for your computer to start up and load the operating system. One of its key features is Secure Boot, which prevents unauthorized or malicious software from loading during startup.

However, Secure Boot can block bootable DVDs—especially those that aren’t digitally signed or are created from older operating systems. Additionally, UEFI systems often prioritize booting from USB drives or network sources over optical drives, which can make DVD booting less straightforward.

Lenovo computers, especially models from the last decade, come with UEFI firmware by default. This means that if you’re trying to boot from a DVD, you may need to adjust several settings to ensure compatibility.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before Starting

Before attempting to boot from a DVD, make sure you have the following:

• A bootable DVD: This could be an OS installation disc (like Windows 10/11), a Linux distribution (such as Ubuntu), or a recovery tool. Ensure the disc is properly burned and not corrupted.
• A functioning optical drive: Most modern Lenovo laptops have built-in DVD drives, but some ultrabooks may require an external USB DVD drive.
• Administrator access: You’ll need full access to your system to change UEFI settings.
• Backup of important data: If you’re installing a new OS, back up your files to avoid data loss.

Once you’ve confirmed these, you’re ready to proceed.

Step 1: Access the UEFI Firmware Settings on Lenovo

The first step is to enter the UEFI settings menu, where you can configure boot options.

Method 1: Using the Novo Button (Most Lenovo Laptops)

Many Lenovo laptops (especially ThinkPad, IdeaPad, and Legion models) come with a small Novo button—a tiny pinhole button usually located on the side or near the power button.

1. Shut down your Lenovo computer completely.
2. Locate the Novo button. It’s often labeled with a small arrow or recovery icon.
3. Use a paperclip or SIM ejector tool to gently press and hold the Novo button for 2–3 seconds.
4. The computer will power on and display a blue menu with options like “Normal Startup,” “BIOS Setup,” and “Boot Menu.”
5. Select BIOS Setup using the arrow keys and press Enter.

Method 2: From Windows (If the System Boots)

If your Lenovo is already running Windows, you can access UEFI through the operating system:

1. Click the Start menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
2. Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
3. Under “Advanced startup,” click Restart now.
4. Your PC will restart and show a blue recovery screen.
5. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings.
6. Click Restart to enter the UEFI menu.

Method 3: Using the F2 or Fn + F2 Key

On some Lenovo models, you can press F2 (or Fn + F2 on laptops with function key locks) during startup to enter BIOS/UEFI.

1. Power off your Lenovo.
2. Press the power button to turn it on.
3. Immediately start pressing F2 (or Fn + F2) repeatedly until the UEFI screen appears.

Tip: Timing is crucial. Press the key as soon as the Lenovo logo appears.

Step 2: Navigate the UEFI Interface

Once inside the UEFI settings, you’ll see a graphical interface with tabs like “Main,” “Config,” “Security,” “Startup,” and “Restart.”

Use the arrow keys to navigate. Most Lenovo UEFI menus are user-friendly, but the layout may vary slightly depending on your model.

Understanding Key Tabs

• Main: Shows system information like CPU, RAM, and boot mode.
• Config: Allows configuration of hardware settings (e.g., SATA mode, USB settings).
• Security: Manages Secure Boot, passwords, and TPM settings.
• Startup: Controls boot order and boot mode (UEFI vs Legacy).
• Restart: Options to exit, save changes, or reset to defaults.

We’ll focus primarily on the Security and Startup tabs for DVD booting.

Step 3: Disable Secure Boot (Temporarily)

Secure Boot is a security feature that ensures only trusted software can boot. Unfortunately, many bootable DVDs—especially older ones or custom Linux distributions—are not signed with a trusted certificate.

To allow your DVD to boot, you’ll need to temporarily disable Secure Boot.

Steps to Disable Secure Boot

1. Navigate to the Security tab using the arrow keys.
2. Look for an option labeled Secure Boot or Secure Boot Configuration.
3. Press Enter to open the submenu.
4. Change the setting from Enabled to Disabled.
5. Press F10 to save changes and exit (you’ll be prompted to confirm).

Note: Disabling Secure Boot reduces system security. Only do this temporarily and re-enable it after installation.

Step 4: Enable Legacy Support (CSM) – If Needed

Some older bootable DVDs were created for Legacy BIOS systems and may not be compatible with pure UEFI mode. In such cases, you’ll need to enable CSM (Compatibility Support Module), which allows the system to emulate Legacy BIOS behavior.

When to Enable CSM

• Your DVD fails to boot even after disabling Secure Boot.
• The DVD was created for an older OS (e.g., Windows 7 or earlier).
• You see errors like “No bootable device” or “Operating system not found.”

Steps to Enable CSM

1. Go to the Startup tab.
2. Look for UEFI/Legacy Boot or Boot Mode.
3. Change the setting from UEFI Only to Both or Legacy First.
4. If available, enable CSM (Compatibility Support Module).
5. Press F10 to save and exit.

Warning: Enabling CSM may affect performance and security. Use it only if necessary and disable it afterward.

Step 5: Set DVD Drive as First Boot Device

Even with Secure Boot off and CSM enabled, your system may still ignore the DVD if it’s not prioritized in the boot order.

Steps to Change Boot Order

1. In the Startup tab, look for Boot Priority or Boot Order.
2. You’ll see a list of boot devices (e.g., USB, HDD, DVD, Network).
3. Use the + and – keys (or F5/F6 on some models) to move the DVD Drive to the top of the list.
4. Ensure the DVD drive is listed and recognized. If not, check connections or try a different drive.
5. Press F10 to save changes and restart.

Tip: Some Lenovo models allow you to press F12 during startup to open a one-time boot menu. This lets you select the DVD drive without changing permanent settings.

Step 6: Insert the DVD and Restart

Now that your settings are configured:

1. Insert the bootable DVD into the optical drive.
2. Close the drive tray securely.
3. Restart your Lenovo computer.
4. The system should now detect the DVD and begin the boot process.

You should see a message like “Press any key to boot from CD or DVD…” — press a key within a few seconds to continue.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with correct settings, you might encounter problems. Here’s how to fix the most common ones.

Issue 1: “No Bootable Device” Error

Possible Causes:

• DVD is not bootable.
• DVD is damaged or poorly burned.
• Optical drive is faulty.
• Boot order is incorrect.

Solutions:

• Verify the DVD on another computer.
• Re-burn the DVD using reliable software (e.g., Rufus, ImgBurn).
• Try an external USB DVD drive.
• Double-check the boot order in UEFI.

Issue 2: Black Screen After Boot Attempt

Possible Causes:

• Secure Boot is still enabled.
• CSM is disabled for a Legacy DVD.
• Graphics driver conflict.

Solutions:

• Re-enter UEFI and confirm Secure Boot is off.
• Enable CSM if using an older DVD.
• Try booting in “Safe Mode” or “Compatibility Mode” if the OS installer offers it.

Issue 3: DVD Drive Not Detected

Possible Causes:

• Drive not connected properly (desktop).
• Driver issue in UEFI.
• Hardware failure.

Solutions:

• Check SATA/power cables on desktop PCs.
• Update UEFI firmware from Lenovo’s support site.
• Test with another DVD or drive.

Issue 4: System Boots to Windows Instead of DVD

Possible Causes:

• Boot order not saved.
• Fast Startup is enabled in Windows.

Solutions:

• Re-enter UEFI and confirm DVD is first in boot order.
• Disable Fast Startup in Windows Power Options.
• Use the F12 boot menu to manually select the DVD.

Post-Installation: Restoring UEFI Security Settings

After successfully booting from the DVD and completing your installation or recovery, it’s important to restore your system’s security.

Recommended Steps

1. Re-enter UEFI settings (using Novo button or F2).
2. Go to the Security tab and re-enable Secure Boot.
3. Go to the Startup tab and set boot mode back to UEFI Only (disable CSM if enabled).
4. Reset boot order to prioritize the internal hard drive.
5. Save changes and exit.

This ensures your Lenovo remains secure and performs optimally.

Alternative: Using a USB Drive Instead of DVD

While this guide focuses on DVDs, consider using a USB flash drive for future installations. USB drives are faster, more reliable, and fully compatible with UEFI mode—even with Secure Boot enabled (if the OS supports it).

To create a bootable USB:

• Use tools like Rufus (Windows) or Etcher (cross-platform).
• Select UEFI-compatible settings when formatting.
• Boot from USB using the F12 menu.

This method avoids many of the DVD-related issues and is recommended for modern systems.

Conclusion

Booting a DVD in UEFI mode on a Lenovo computer doesn’t have to be frustrating. By following this guide, you’ve learned how to access UEFI settings, disable Secure Boot, enable Legacy support if needed, and prioritize your DVD drive in the boot order.

Remember to only make temporary changes for compatibility and restore security settings afterward. With the right configuration, your Lenovo will boot from DVD smoothly—whether you’re installing a new OS, running diagnostics, or recovering your system.

If you encounter issues, use the troubleshooting tips to diagnose and fix common problems. And when possible, consider switching to USB for a faster, more reliable experience.

Now you’re equipped to handle DVD booting on any Lenovo UEFI system with confidence.