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April 2nd, 2025 05:58
Dell Latitude 5450, Total Memory Encryption causing reboot loop
Model - Dell Latitude 5450 with Intel Core 5 Ultra 135 CPU, BIOS - 1.13.1.
If Total Memory Encryption is enabled the system becomes unusable after installing Windows 11 Pro 24H2 (ISO image from Microsoft). The system goes into a reboot loop. The remedy is to disable Total Memory Encryption.
Documentation does not state any additional information:
| Intel Total Memory Encryption | |
| Multi-Key Total Memory Encryption (Up to 16 keys) | Enables or disables the processor’s memory encryption feature. By default, the Multi-Key Total Memory Encryption (Up to 16 keys) option is disabled. |
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DELL-Jesse L
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April 2nd, 2025 06:09
If a Dell Latitude 5450 is stuck in a reboot loop due to Total Memory Encryption, try a hard reset by holding the power button for 30 seconds, then verify BIOS settings and run Dell diagnostics, or attempt a Windows repair using SupportAssist OS Recovery.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of troubleshooting steps:
1. Hard Reset (RTC Reset):
What it is:
A hard reset, also known as an RTC (Real-Time Clock) reset, forces the computer to restart and clear any temporary glitches that might be causing the boot loop.
How to do it:
Turn off the computer completely.
Press and hold the power button for 30-35 seconds.
Release the power button and try booting the computer again.
2. Verify BIOS Settings:
Why:
Incorrect or corrupted BIOS settings can sometimes interfere with the boot process.
How to access BIOS:
Turn on the computer and repeatedly press the F2 key (or Del key, depending on your Dell model) during the startup sequence to enter the BIOS setup.
What to check:
Boot Order: Ensure the boot order is set correctly, with the hard drive or SSD listed as the primary boot device.
Total Memory Encryption: If the Total Memory Encryption setting is enabled, try disabling it temporarily to see if that resolves the boot loop.
Secure Boot: If Secure Boot is enabled, try disabling it temporarily.
Save Changes: After making any changes, save the settings and exit the BIOS.
3. Run Dell Diagnostics:
Why:
Dell diagnostics can help identify hardware issues that might be causing the boot loop.
How to access diagnostics:
Turn on the computer and repeatedly press the F12 key during the startup sequence to access the boot menu.
Select "Diagnostics" from the menu.
Follow the on-screen instructions to run the diagnostics.
4. Repair Windows Startup Files:
Why: Corrupted Windows startup files can prevent the computer from booting.
How to repair:
Insert a Windows installation disc or USB drive.
Boot from the disc or drive and select "Repair your computer".
Choose "Startup Repair" or "System Restore" from the options.
5. Repair Windows Using SupportAssist OS Recovery:
Why: SupportAssist OS Recovery can help restore Windows to a working state.
How to use:
Go to the Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery page.
Follow the instructions to create a recovery drive.
Boot from the recovery drive and follow the on-screen instructions to restore Windows.
(edited)
Kristaps Esterlins55acc7
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April 2nd, 2025 06:12
Hi,
I already fixed the issue by disabling "Intel Total Memory Encryption" setting in BIOS. My question - is Dell aware of this issue?
G33K2303
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April 11th, 2025 18:13
I have the exact same issue on my Latitude 5450 but with a different processor - Ultra 7 165H.
Once I disable Intel TME, system boots up again. Sounds like an issue to me.
1coyote2
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May 1st, 2025 19:21
Resetting the bios to DEFAULT, will also clear the boot loop. This worked for Dell 5550's and 7450's. I was told Dell found a code problem in the tme and should be updating the bios in May or June. The update for the 5550's was just released and should fix the problem