TECH

Updating the BIOS leaves Dell computers inoperative

It has been revealed that a recent BIOS update for Dell computers and laptops is interfering with the functionality of some Dell device models. This is evidenced by numerous complaints from users rushing to install the appropriate updates.

The issue is affecting the Dell Inspiron 5680 and Alienware Aurora R8 desktops and the Dell Latitude 5320 and Latitude 5520 laptops. In some cases, updating the BIOS will cause the coolers to spin when the devices are turned on, but nothing else happens. Additionally, the update may lead to blue screens of death (BSOD) appearing in the boot phase and cyclic device reboots.

The problematic BIOS versions are considered 1.0.18 and 2.8.0 for Aurora and Inspiron respectively, and 1.14.3 for Latitude laptops. This results from user posts that have surfaced on the Dell support forum and in communities like Reddit.

Currently, the only way to fix a Dell device boot issue after a BIOS update is to roll back to an earlier version of the software. Dell representatives have so far refrained from commenting on the matter, but the company has suspended the release of new BIOS firmware versions. Apparently, Dell is busy working on patches right now, after which firmware updates will be available again to users.

AVnews