I'm having trouble with a couple of Dell Precision Desktops while trying to upgrade to Windows 25H2. Since our network lacks internet access, I've been using installation media for the upgrade. Before starting, I ran the sfc /scannow command to check the system files, but when the upgrade process reaches the reboot stage, I only see about ten seconds of the BIOS screen before the display goes black. The Shift lock and Num lock keys still show signs of life, but there's no video output. I even left the desktop to update over the weekend, but it didn't finish. Now, when I try to reboot, the system rolls back to 23H2 and displays an error about failing in the FIRST_BOOT phase.
2 Answers
You might want to check if the BIOS/UEFI version on those machines is up to date. I've noticed that some Dell systems can hang during the first boot phase when the firmware isn’t current. It could also help to try the upgrade with only the essential peripherals connected to see if that makes a difference.
Consider using a 24H2 image or ISO to navigate past the major version change, and then apply the 25H2 enablement package afterward. Sometimes there are specific issues with the 25H2 source that can cause problems in certain setups.
We did update to the latest BIOS after the first failed attempt, but I’ll check which peripherals we can disconnect. Thanks for the tip!