Cannot PXE Boot to a Dell USB Type-C to Ethernet Dongle

Summary: This article addresses an issue affecting PXE booting to a Dell USB Type-C to Ethernet dongle.

This article applies to This article does not apply to This article is not tied to any specific product. Not all product versions are identified in this article.
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Symptoms

Users may be unable to PXE boot with the Dell Type-C to Ethernet dongle. The symptom encountered is that there is no PXE option listed in the F12 boot menu.

    Cause

    BIOS configuration.

    Resolution

    The solution is to set the system Fastboot to "Thorough" in the BIOS.  You can find the Options at Post Behavior > Fastboot. For detailed instructions on entering and configuring the BIOS, reference your system manual available for download from the Dell Support website: https://www.dell.com/support/home .

    The following additional configuration changes may be necessary to successfully PXE boot depending on the environment:

    • PXE needs to be enabled under the NIC
    • Current systems will require the UEFI network stack to be enabled
    • IPV4 should be enabled and IPV6 should be disabled (unless the network is configured for IPV6)

    Affected Products

    Alienware, Inspiron, OptiPlex, Vostro, XPS, G Series, G Series, Alienware, Inspiron, Latitude, Vostro, XPS, Latitude Tablets, Surface, XPS Tablets, Fixed Workstations, Mobile Workstations
    Article Properties
    Article Number: 000148936
    Article Type: Solution
    Last Modified: 21 May 2025
    Version:  10
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