Unlock the Secret: Dell XPS - How to Boot from USB

DELL XPS series is widely acknowledged for its robust performance, sleek design, and high-end features. However, like any other electronic device, these machines may also encounter some issues. One effective way to address such issues or to upgrade your operating system is by booting your Dell XPS from a USB. This guide shall furnish you with all the details on how to boot your Dell XPS from a USB.

What is DELL XPS?

DELL XPS, an acronym for Xtreme Performance System, is a line of high-performance computers manufactured by DELL. First introduced in 1990, these machines have evolved over the years to meet the growing demands of consumers and keep pace with technological advancements. The DELL XPS series is reputable for its exceptional performance, sleek design, and impressive features, making it a preferred choice for both personal and professional use.

Why do You Need to Boot DELL XPS from USB?

There are several reasons why you might need to boot your DELL XPS from a USB. Here are some of the most common scenarios:

✌ System Recovery or Reinstallation: If your computer encounters a system failure or critical error that cannot be rectified through the normal troubleshooting process, booting from a USB can allow you to recover or reinstall the system.
✌ Operating System Upgrade: If you're still using an outdated operating system, you can use a bootable USB to upgrade to a newer version, such as Windows 10 or Windows 11.
✌ Dual Booting: If you wish to use two different operating systems on your computer, a bootable USB can help you set up a dual boot system.
✌ Password Reset: If you've forgotten your system password, booting from a USB can allow you to reset it.

Preparations for Dell Boot from USB

Before you proceed to boot your DELL XPS from a USB, there are a few things you need to prepare:

• USB Drive: Make sure you have a USB drive with a minimum storage capacity of 8GB. It's also recommended to backup any important data on the drive as the process will erase all existing data.

• ISO File: Download the ISO file for the operating system you intend to install. You can download the official Windows ISO files from the Microsoft website.

Windows 11: www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11

Windows 10: www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

Bootable Media Tool: You'll need a tool to create a bootable USB drive. Except for Rufus, you can also try the bootable media tool: AOMEI Backupper Standard. These tools can burn the ISO file to your USB drive, making it bootable.

How to Create Bootable USB for Dell XPS with AOMEI Backupper

If you're unsure how to make a bootable USB for your computer, don't worry! In this section, I'll introduce you to the best free backup software for creating one: AOMEI Backupper Standard. Here's why it's a great choice:

✍ It can create bootable USBs, CDs/DVDs, or ISO files, making it versatile for different needs.
✍ It works with both BIOS and UEFI modes, so you're covered no matter your system setup.
✍ The bootable USBs it creates can be used on various computer brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
✍ It's compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

Now, let's dive into creating a bootable USB for your Dell XPS using AOMEI Backupper Standard. Just remember, that formatting your USB drive during this process will erase its data, so be sure to back up the files on the USB drive beforehand.

Steps to Create Windows Server Bootable USB

Step 1: Download and install AOMEI Backupper Standard. Insert your USB drive formatted as NTFS into your computer.

Step 2: Launch and open AOMEI Backupper. Navigate to the "Tools" tab and click on "Create Bootable Media."

Step 3: Select "Windows PE" as the bootable disc type. This option is recommended for its versatility and functionality.

Step 4: Check the box next to "USB Boot Device" and click "Next." And wait for the process to complete, then click "Finish."

Notes:
If you don't have a separate USB for bootable media, you can create an AOMEI recovery environment from the "Tools" menu.
This allows you to perform backup recovery tasks in case of system crashes.
For network booting on Dell computers, consider using the PXE boot tool or AOMEI Image Deploy feature, available in the advanced edition.

How to Boot Dell XPS from USB

Once you've got your bootable USB ready, here's how to set up your Dell computer to boot from it in UEFI mode:

Step 1: Shut down your computer and plug in the bootable USB drive.

Step 2: Turn on your computer and as soon as you see the Dell logo, press F2.

Step 3: In the BIOS setup, go to "Advanced" and then "CSM Configuration." Find the "Boot option filter" section and choose "UEFI only." This sets UEFI as your boot order.

Step 4: Head to the "Boot" menu and pick your bootable USB from the list of drives. Hit ENTER. Press F4 to confirm your choices and exit the screen.

Step 5: If you're prompted to confirm "Save & Exit," choose "Yes," and then press ENTER. Your Dell computer will begin booting from the USB drive you connected earlier. Just be patient and follow the instructions on the screen until everything's done.

FAQs About Dell XPSUSBBoot

Here are some frequently asked questions about booting Dell XPS from USB:

Q1: Can I boot my Dell XPS from a USB-C drive?

A1: Yes, you can boot your Dell XPS from a USB-C drive. However, you may need to adjust some BIOS settings to recognize the USB-C drive as a bootable device.

Q2: What should I do if my USB drive is not listed in the boot options?

A2: If your USB drive is not listed in the boot options, you may need to disable the Fast Boot option in your BIOS settings. This can usually be found under the "Boot" tab in the BIOS.

Q3: Can I boot from a USB drive in UEFI mode?

A3: Yes, you can boot from a USB drive in UEFI mode. However, you'll need to ensure that your USB drive is formatted as FAT32, as UEFI does not support NTFS boot media.

Conclusion

Booting your DELL XPS from a USB can be an effective way to troubleshoot issues, reinstall or upgrade your operating system, or set up a dual boot system. As long as you're prepared with a bootable USB drive and the right knowledge, you can successfully boot your DELL XPS from a USB. Remember, if you encounter any issues during the process, don't hesitate to seek help from DELL's customer support or online forums.AOMEI Backupper is a top-notch tool that's worth trying out. It's so versatile that you can even use it to create a Windows XP backup disk. Why not give it a shot?