Updating your system BIOS using a USB flash drive
About this task
If the computer cannot load into Windows but there is still a need to update the BIOS, download the BIOS file using another
computer and save it to a bootable USB flash drive.
NOTE:
You must use a bootable USB flash drive. For more information, see the knowledge base article
.
Steps
1. Download the BIOS update .exe file to another computer.
2. Copy the .exe file onto the bootable USB flash drive.
3. Insert the USB flash drive into the computer that requires the BIOS update.
4. Restart the computer and press F12 when the Dell logo appears to display the One Time Boot Menu.
5. Using arrow keys, select
USB Storage Device
and press Enter.
6. The computer restarts to a Diag C:\> prompt.
7. Run the file by typing the complete filename and press Enter.
8. The BIOS Update Utility is displayed. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Figure 1. DOS BIOS Update Screen
System and setup password
Table 19. System and setup password
Password type
Description
System password
Password that you must enter to log on to your system.
Setup password
Password that you must enter to access and make changes to
the BIOS settings of your computer.
You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your computer.
CAUTION:
The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your computer.
CAUTION:
Anyone can access the data stored on your computer if it is not locked and left unattended.
System setup
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