Fix: Secure Boot Can Be Enabled When System in User Mode

This comprehensive guide provides a deep dive into fixing the common problem where "secure boot can be enabled when system is in user mode."

Lori

By Lori / Updated on February 26, 2024

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Ever bumped into the frustrating alert that says "secure boot can be enabled when system is in user mode issue how to fix"? Oh boy, it can throw your day off track! But fret not, because you're about to embark on a troubleshooting journey that'll get your computer's secure boot functioning just as it should.

disable-secure-boot

Secure Boot is like the bouncer of your system's boot process, ensuring that only trusted software gets through the door when your computer starts up. When it throws a tantrum, you've got to know the secret handshake to calm it down. So, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of getting you past this roadblock.

Understanding Secure Boot and User Mode

Before we jump into the fixes, let's take a quick detour to understand what we're dealing with. Secure Boot is a feature in your computer's UEFI firmware (that's the modern replacement for the BIOS) that checks the signature of each piece of boot software, including boot loaders and drivers. It's designed to protect your system from malware by only allowing trusted software to run at boot time.

When Secure Boot is fussing about being in user mode, it's essentially saying it's not in the state to enforce its security standards. Think of it as a security guard being told they can only use their flashlight but not their whole security toolkit.

Method 1: Checking BIOS/UEFI Settings

Restart and Enter BIOS/UEFI: The first step is to restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. This usually involves pressing a specific key like F2, F12, Del, or Esc right after you power on your system. The exact key varies by manufacturer, so you might have to do a quick search or keep a keen eye on your screen for instructions during boot-up.

Navigate to Secure Boot Settings: Once in the BIOS/UEFI menu, look for the "Secure Boot" option. It's often nestled under the "Boot," "Security," or "Authentication" tab, but again, this can vary.

Change Secure Boot Mode: If Secure Boot is set to "User Mode," change it to "Standard" or "Custom" mode. Some systems might offer an option to "Reset to Factory Default," which can also do the trick.

Save and Exit: Don't forget to save your changes before exiting the BIOS/UEFI settings. This typically involves pressing the F10 key and selecting "Yes" to confirm.

Method 2: Updating Firmware/BIOS

Sometimes, the issue can stem from outdated firmware or BIOS. Manufacturers often release updates that can resolve various issues, including Secure Boot hiccups.

Check Your System Model: First, you'll need to know your computer or motherboard model. This information is usually found in the system information screen within the BIOS/UEFI settings or on a sticker on your computer.

Find and Download Firmware Update: Visit the manufacturer's website, head to their support or downloads section, and look for the latest firmware or BIOS update for your specific model.

Follow Manufacturer's Update Instructions: Carefully follow the provided instructions to update your firmware. This often involves running an executable file in Windows or using a built-in firmware update tool in the BIOS/UEFI settings.

Method 3: Disabling Fast Boot

Fast Boot is a feature that speeds up the boot process by skipping certain checks, which can sometimes interfere with Secure Boot.

Enter BIOS/UEFI Settings: Restart your computer and access the BIOS/UEFI settings as described earlier.

Find Fast Boot Option: Look for the "Fast Boot" option, which might be under the "Boot," "Advanced," or "Power Management" settings.

Disable Fast Boot: Select the Fast Boot option and change it to "Disabled."

Save and Exit: Remember to save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings.

Method 4: Using MyRecover for System Recovery

When all else fails, or if you're looking for a more straightforward solution, MyRecover comes to the rescue. It's a powerful tool designed for system recovery, including issues related to Secure Boot.

Download MyRecover: Head over to the MyRecover website and download the software.

Create a Recovery Drive: Follow the instructions to create a bootable recovery drive using a USB stick.

Boot from the Recovery Drive: With the recovery drive plugged in, restart your computer and boot from the USB stick. You might need to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings to change the boot order.

Use MyRecover Tools: MyRecover will provide a set of tools designed to fix boot issues. Look for any options related to Secure Boot and follow the prompts to repair your system.

Conclusion

Navigating through the "secure boot can be enabled when system is in user mode issue" can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, it's entirely manageable. Whether you're diving into BIOS/UEFI settings, updating firmware, disabling fast boot, or using a dedicated recovery tool like MyRecover, there's a solution out there for you. Remember, the key is to proceed with patience and follow each step carefully to bring Secure Boot back in line.

FAQs

What is Secure Boot?

Secure Boot is a security standard developed by members of the PC industry to help ensure that a device boots using only software that is trusted by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

Why am I seeing a 'secure boot can be enabled when system is in user mode' issue?

This message typically appears when Secure Boot settings are misconfigured in your system's BIOS/UEFI firmware, often due to incorrect settings or an outdated firmware version.

Can updating my system's BIOS/UEFI firmware solve the Secure Boot issue?

Yes, updating the firmware can resolve issues related to Secure Boot and other system functionalities, as manufacturers release updates to fix bugs and improve security.

Is disabling Fast Boot necessary to fix Secure Boot issues?

While not always necessary, disabling Fast Boot can help in some cases where it interferes with the proper functioning of Secure Boot during the system's boot process.

What is MyRecover, and how can it help?

MyRecover is a recovery tool designed to address various system boot issues, including Secure Boot problems. It provides a user-friendly interface to repair common issues without needing extensive technical knowledge.

Lori
Lori · Editor
Lori receives professional technical training since joining AOMEI, and aims at helping users troubleshoot problems on data recovery and protection. She focuses on simple, efficient and practical methods, and provides professional advice. Being able to help readers and users is her ultimate goal.