Getting TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot working on a Gigabyte motherboard is super important if you want to keep your computer safe and meet the needs of new software. These features are a big deal for anyone who does more than just surf the internet, especially for gamers. Take Riot’s game “Valorant” for instance; you can’t even play it without having TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot turned on. We’re here to walk you through how to activate TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on a Gigabyte motherboard.
Also see: How to Enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on ASRock
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Why TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot have become essential?
Now more than ever, keeping our computers safe is crucial. This is where TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot come in. But why are they so important now?
TPM 2.0: Think of Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 as your computer’s personal security guard. It’s a special chip that keeps your data safe and makes sure your computer boots up with trusted hardware only. With all the scary stuff like cyber threats and data breaches out there, TPM 2.0 is like a superhero for your computer, keeping your information out of the wrong hands.
Secure Boot: Secure Boot acts like a bouncer for your computer, checking the software at startup to make sure it’s safe before letting it run. It stops bad software, like viruses, in their tracks.
These features aren’t just for keeping things safe; they’re also needed for running certain modern apps and games. For example, games like Riot’s “Valorant” need these security measures to work properly. They help make sure the game environment is secure and free from cheats.
Learn more: Can’t find TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot options in BIOS?
Opening the UEFI Settings on a Gigabyte motherboard
First up, getting into your Gigabyte motherboard’s UEFI settings. UEFI is the new and improved BIOS, packed with more features and a nicer interface. Here’s how to dive in:
- Start by rebooting your computer. To get into the UEFI settings, you need to press a special key during the boot-up.
- Keep your eyes peeled for a message telling you which key to press. For most Gigabyte motherboards, it’s the Del key. Hit it over and over right after your computer starts. If you mess up the timing and your operating system starts to load, no stress. Just reboot and try again.
- Once you’re in, you’ll see a nice graphical interface. It’s way friendlier than the old BIOS screens. You’ll navigate around using your keyboard and maybe your mouse.
- If the screen you see isn’t like the one in the picture above, and you’re on a screen called “Easy Mode”, look for a button labeled “Classic” or hit F2.
If you’re not sure what to do next, the manual for your motherboard will have your back with all the details.
Related resource: How to Uninstall & Disable Gigabyte App Center from BIOS
How to enable TPM 2.0 on a Gigabyte motherboard
Now that you’re in your Gigabyte motherboard’s UEFI settings, let’s turn on TPM 2.0. It’s key for keeping your system safe and making sure it works with some software and games, like “Valorant.” Here’s what to do:
- Look for a tab or option that says “Peripherals” or something like “Security” or “Advanced.” That’s usually where the TPM settings are. If you can’t find it, check your motherboard’s manual for a hint.
- In the “Peripherals” section, you might see something called “AMD CPU fTPM” or maybe “TPM Device,” “TPM Security,” or “Intel PTT” for Intel-based systems. Pick this option and set it to “Enabled.”
- After you turn on TPM, if you also need to enable Secure Boot, keep going to the next section. If you’re only turning on TPM 2.0, don’t forget to save your settings. Usually, you do this by pressing F10 or choosing the “Save & Exit” option. Your computer will reboot with TPM 2.0 on.”
For older Gigabyte motherboards, you might need to update your BIOS/UEFI firmware to get TPM 2.0 to work. If you’re having trouble with TPM 2.0 on your board, check the Gigabyte website for updates.
Pro tip: In-place Upgrade of Windows 11 on Unsupported Hardware
How to enable Secure Boot on a Gigabyte motherboard
After you’ve got TPM 2.0 all set, the next step is Secure Boot. This makes sure your PC only starts up with software that’s safe, according to the motherboard maker. It’s really important for keeping your system secure. Here’s how you do it:
- Go to the “BIOS” tab or something similar in the UEFI settings.
- Find the “CSM Support” option and turn it to “Disabled“.
- You need to disable CSM Support so that the Secure Boot option shows up.
- Switch the “Secure Boot” setting from “Disabled” to “Enabled“.
- If you can’t switch Secure Boot on, save and exit, then restart your computer. Go back to the same UEFI setting to turn it on.
- Just like with TPM, make sure to save your settings. Hit F10 or choose “Save Changes and Exit” from the Exit menu. Your computer will restart with Secure Boot on.
Just a heads-up, turning on Secure Boot might mess with older operating systems or software that’s not up to date. If you use more than one operating system or older programs, double-check they’re all good with Secure Boot before you turn it on.
Linked issue: Virtualbox Windows 11: This PC doesn’t meet the requirements
Ensuring compatibility with gaming and modern software
One big reason to switch on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on your Gigabyte motherboard is to make sure you can run new software and games. This is especially true for gamers. Like, Riot Games’ “Valorant” needs these security features on to work. This isn’t just about gaming; a lot of new software uses these security steps for better protection.
Gaming Compatibility: Games like “Valorant” rely on TPM and Secure Boot to create a safe and fair place to play. These features help stop cheating and hacking. By turning these on your Gigabyte motherboard, you’re not just protecting your system, you’re making sure you can play these games without a hitch.
Software Security: Beyond games, TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are the foundation of safe computing, keeping your system safe from bad software and people who shouldn’t have access. This matters a lot nowadays, with so many security issues around.
By switching these features on, you’re making sure your system meets current security and compatibility standards. It’s a must-do to get the most out of your computer, whether you’re gaming, working, or just browsing.
Summing up
Turning on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on your Gigabyte motherboard is more than just prepping for a game session. It’s like buckling up before you drive; it’s about being safe. These steps are crucial not just for playing “Valorant” but for keeping your entire system secure. It’s like having a really good lock on your door to keep out hackers and bad software.
And it’s not just for gamers. With Windows 11 requiring these features, it’s clear that this is where all computers, desktop or laptop, are headed. By turning on TPM and Secure Boot, you’re making sure your computer stays up-to-date with the latest in security. It’s a wise move, making your computer safe, secure, and ready for whatever you want to do next, work, play, or anything else.
