Create Bootable USB for Windows using Dell Diagnostic Deployment Package

When to Use the DDDP Method

This method is appropriate when you need to create a bootable USB drive for:

• BIOS updates outside the operating system on legacy systems
• Computers without an installed operating system
• Systems that cannot boot to the operating system
• Situations where BIOS updates fail within Windows due to permissions, restrictions, antivirus interference, or compatibility issues with the update schedule

Prerequisites

• USB flash drive
• Computer connected to the Internet
• Legacy BIOS system (not UEFI)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Download and Extract DDDP

1. Download the Dell Diagnostic Deployment Package (DDDP)
2. When the File Download window appears, select Run
3. If a User Account Control (UAC) window appears, select Yes
4. In the Dell 32-bit diagnostic window, select Continue
5. In the folder creation window, select OK to use the default folder
6. When the extraction completes, select OK and close the DDDP window

2. Prepare the DIAGS Folder

1. Navigate to the extraction folder (default: C:\Dell\Drivers\R174621)
2. Open the DIAGS folder
3. Remove all files EXCEPT these essential files:
   • AUTOEXEC.bat
   • COMMAND.com
   • CONFIG.sys
   • DELLBIO.bin
   • DELLRMK.bin

3. Format USB Drive

1. Insert your USB flash drive

For drives 32 GB or smaller:

• Right-click the drive in File Explorer and select Format
• Ensure the file system is configured as FAT32

For drives larger than 32 GB:

1. Open PowerShell with Administrator privileges
2. Enter the command: format /FS:FAT32 X: (substitute X with your drive letter)
3. Press Enter to execute the command

4. Create Bootable USB

1. Navigate to C:\Dell\Drivers\R174621\
2. Double-click the DDDP application
3. Choose Install to a USB flash drive
4. The utility will copy the necessary files and make the drive bootable

5. Boot from USB

1. Restart the target computer
2. At the Dell logo, press F12 to enter One Time Boot Menu
3. Select the USB storage device
4. The computer will boot to a command prompt showing C:\

Next Steps

You have successfully created a bootable USB drive for legacy BIOS systems. If you are using this drive for BIOS updates, please consult our comprehensive BIOS update guide for detailed instructions on BIOS flashing procedures and troubleshooting guidance.

Compatible Systems

This method is compatible with legacy Dell systems including Alienware, Inspiron, OptiPlex, Vostro, XPS, and other models that utilize traditional BIOS (not UEFI).

For UEFI-enabled systems: Please refer to our main BIOS update guide for appropriate update methods.