: If you are using BitLocker drive encryption, it is highly recommended to suspend it before updating the BIOS. The update process may cause BitLocker to prompt for a recovery key. You can re-enable BitLocker after the update is complete.
Download the latest XPS 13 9365 BIOS .exe file from Dell’s website and save it directly to the root directory of the USB drive. Turn off your laptop and insert the USB drive.
A: The standard .exe file provided by Dell is designed for Windows and MS-DOS environments. While there are community methods to flash BIOS from Linux, they are not officially supported by Dell and carry a higher risk.
Updating your BIOS is not just about getting new features; it's crucial for the overall health and security of your system.
Updating the BIOS is a high-stakes procedure; an interrupted update can "brick" the motherboard, rendering the laptop unusable. To prevent this, users must follow a strict protocol: Connect Power:
As of the last support update (Dell ended mainstream support for the 9365 in 2022 but continues security patches), the latest version is:
If this happens, use Microsoft's official "Show or hide updates" troubleshooter. Run the tool and select the option to "Hide updates." Then, find the problematic BIOS version from the list and hide it. This will prevent Windows Update from attempting to install it again.
Double-click the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts.
If you encounter any issues during or after the BIOS update, here are some troubleshooting tips:
While BIOS updates rarely affect user files, it is a best practice to back up critical data in case of a system failure. Identify the Current Version:
Knowing your BIOS version helps you understand the improvements available. Here are some key versions for the XPS 13 9365:
Enhancements to the Embedded Controller and thermal settings help the laptop run cooler and more efficiently.
If you are jumping from 2018 firmware to 2022 firmware, Dell’s update utility will handle the "bridge" update automatically. However, for absolute safety:
A: If standard methods fail consistently, the most reliable solution reported by users is the emergency BIOS recovery using the Ctrl+Esc key combination with a USB drive prepared with the BIOS_IMG.rcv file.
Many users ignore BIOS updates because they are risk-averse or simply do not understand the benefits. Unlike a driver update that fixes a printer or audio jack, a BIOS update changes the very firmware that initializes your hardware before Windows boots. Here is what a fresh BIOS does for the 9365:
Remember to go back into your settings and if you turned it off earlier. Method 2: Update via USB Flash Drive (F12 Boot Menu)
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Dell Support Website.
Select "BIOS" in the category dropdown, download the latest .exe file, and save it to your desktop.