What Does AHCI Mode do, And Should You Use it?

Enable the AHCI mode via the Registry Editor or BIOS

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) is a mode or protocol SATA (Serial ATA) controllers use. It helps improve the system’s performance with communication with storage devices. However, this guide will discuss what AHCI mode means and what it does.

Also, you may be interested in our article aboutSATA SSD not listed as boot optionissue and how to fix it.

What is AHCI mode, and what does it do?

AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) is a mode or protocol used by SATA (Serial ATA) controllers to communicate with storage devices, such as hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs). It was introduced as a replacement for the older IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) mode.

Further, AHCI provides several advantages over IDE, including better performance and support for advanced features such as Native Command Queuing (NCQ) and hot-plugging. Here are some key features and benefits of AHCI:

It’s worth noting that AHCI is the standard mode for modern SATA controllers and storage devices. However, some older systems may still be able to operate in IDE mode for compatibility reasons.

If you have a modern system and are using a SATA-based storage device, it is generally recommended to have AHCI mode enabled. Enabling it in the UEFI orBIOS settingsallows it to take advantage of its features and performance benefits.

Should I use the ACHI mode?

Yes, if you have a modern system and are using a SATA-based storage device such as ahard driveor SSD, it is generally recommended to use AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) mode.

However, it’s important to note that changing the storage mode from IDE to AHCI after installing the operating system can sometimes require additional steps. They include installing AHCI drivers and making changes to the system configuration.

Additionally, It is recommended to consult your motherboard or system documentation. Also, you can seek assistance from a knowledgeable technician before making any changes to the storage mode.

How can I enable ACHI mode in BIOS?

1. Enable AHCI via Registry Editor

2. Change it from BIOS

Can I use ACHI mode with HDD or SSD?

Yes, AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) mode supports both HDDs (hard disk drives) and SSDs (solid-state drives).

It enables communication between the SATA (Serial ATA) controller and the storage device, regardless of whether it is a traditional HDD or an SSD.

The AHCI mode will also improve thehealth and performance of your SSD, so you should probably turn it On.

In conclusion, you can check our article about thebest laptops with both SSD and HDDfor maximum storage, speed, and performance.

If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section.

What Does AHCI Mode do, And Should You Use it?#

What is AHCI mode, and what does it do?#

Should I use the ACHI mode?#

How can I enable ACHI mode in BIOS?#

1. Enable AHCI via Registry Editor#

2. Change it from BIOS#

Can I use ACHI mode with HDD or SSD?#