BIOS/UEFI Configuration for Optimizing M.2 PCIe^®NVMe^®SSDs

When installing a new M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD, you might encounter messages about configuring your system to increase SSD speeds or managing shared bandwidth between SATA and NVMe ports. 

We are not able to assist with this in detail due to variations between applicable systems, but it is not a malfunction.

While specific configurations can vary across systems, understanding the basic concepts can help you optimize your hardware for better performance and avoid issues like drives not being detected.

Understanding these concepts will also help you seek detailed information on how to configure your hardware for optimal performance. This will help avoid actual malfunctions, such as solid state drives and hard drives not being detected in a system.  

In the example below, we show a POST message that appears when an NVMe SSD is first installed in an ASUS® ROG Maximus IX Formula. 

Many systems offer a PCIe x4 mode, which is ideal for NVMe SSD performance. Enabling this mode maximizes SSD speed by reallocating bandwidth from other ports, often disabling them in the process.

M.2 ports can typically be configured in your system’s BIOS or UEFI settings. This configuration might be automated, or you may receive a message prompting you to adjust settings when an NVMe drive is installed. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the feature prior to installing hardware.

Detailed instructions are usually provided in your system or motherboard manual. Tooltips within the BIOS/UEFI interface can also guide you through the configuration process.

When an NVMe SSD is installed in the ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula, a POST message may appear. Here’s a step-by-step guide to optimize your NVMe SSD:

Enter your system’s BIOS/UEFI setup during startup (usually by pressing a key like F2 or DEL).

Locate the M.2 configuration settings. This can be found in different sections depending on your motherboard model.

Select the option to enable PCIe x4 mode for the M.2 slot. Enabling this mode will speed up NVMe performance but will disable SATA ports 5 and 6, as indicated by the manual and on-screen tooltips.

An example of M.2 bandwidth configuration in ROG Maximus IX Formula UEFI can be found below. Enabling x4 bandwidth will speed up NVMe performance and disable SATA ports 5 and 6, per both the manual and tooltip on this screen.

To manually make these adjustments for your system, refer to the system manufacturer’s website support area for your motherboard and for detailed assistance.

Pay close attention to any help or tooltips available in your system's BIOS/UEFI itself.

By understanding these settings and knowing where to find specific instructions, you can ensure your NVMe SSD operates at its optimal speed without causing conflicts with other system components. You can also upgrade with a Crucial NVMe SSD to quickly boost your speed and storage.