BIOS update (1.4.4) messed up my laptop

Hello,

I have Alienware 15 R2, yesterday I updated my bios to 1.4.4, but after that some problems occurred.

1. my laptop bios startup needed 4-6 second, now it needs a minute (feels like eternity)

2. when I shut down my computer keyboard lights stays on

I tried to re-install old BIOS, but It says that 1.4.4 is protected and cant install old one.

what can I do about this case?

Update: sleep is also not an option, when it sleeps, it’s same as shut down (lights on, not waking up, no reaction on power button until I long press it and turn power off completely)

 

just press F12 when booting up, use a FAT32 formatted USB drive, download old 1.3.12 bios and use GSET BIOS Flash utility, and select the older bios from that utility, using tab button u can navigate to ur folder, once selected, it will ask not to format to older bios, just press cancel.. tahts it..

 

MEI FW update will fix those issues. After FW update you need to shutdown the PC for 15 mins and initial Boot up will be slow and after installing newer MEI driver and couple of reboots. The boot sequence is way faster than old firmware.
@VICKYGAMEBOY Should I post updated guide?

 

Vasudev, your update will probably invalidate peoples warrantys and is in no way a known "fix" for anything.

No-one even knows if you can undo it back to "factory" so to offer it to others is far from "safe" or advisable.

The issue is Alienware needs to fix their BIOS. It is THEIR problem and hacking and patching (especially with MEI FW that you cannot support) is NOT the way of going about dealing with this.

It is OK to be a fan-boy and want to hack your own system. To hack internal system components with unverified software from unverified sources is NOT the way for others to fix any of this. Great for you if you feel comfortable, but it is wrong for you to advocate others to damage what they have with your techniques.

 

It would be helpful for some people.

 

Well TBH most people actually think its risky even including myself until I went in and used the script suggested by Chef Koch.
Well, I guess people will wait until Dell issues a fix. As I see 90% don't want it and for 10% I posted the minimal guide in here New BIOS for 15R2/17R3 v1.4.4 and for FW if Prema's tool is unavailable New BIOS for 15R2/17R3 v1.4.4

 

next time should we post a thing so called * do it at your own risk * haha, i myself have tested other firmwares on older boards and with many other devices, so let the users choose what they want to do, we just post with caution next time, if something goes wrong with their particular board / sets of drivers they run, we cant be held responsible, this ME firmwares and BIOS things are very complicated.. but post the update guide, FYI i used Forcereset for all BIOS / ME FW on other laptops..

 

Then why are you getting flagged for sa0086 exploit, when you're latest FW? BTW, I tested it on AW 15 r2 only.

 

well i dont have latest FW on my R2 yet.. its for other laptops.. those system is not getting exploit thingy.. but i they got windows activation issues like i had before..

 

Honestly, I think it is great that people feel confident enough to muck around with an expensive laptop like this to try to fix what Dell won't just yet...

My only issue is in advising others that may not be as technically inclined to do something that could end up bricking their unit. That is all.

I am sure there are a lot that are looking for a "fix" and could result in them not having a functioning unit with no options/recourse...

As it stands, the more people that ***** at Alienware/Dell, the better... That is the ONLY way for them to be motivated to fix their problems. Sad part is, on units out of warranty, it is well known that most companies won't do anything unless forced by the threat of a lawsuit. Just look at the nVidia killing off GTX480s with drivers... Done on purpose and they didn't care since all of them were out of warranty. No one got together to sue and they should have.

Kinda funny that about 20 releases of their drivers later it is no longer killing cards and the cards are running fast enough that a pair in SLI can keep up with GTX880s at 1920x1080... The earlier drivers wouldn't have come close because of all the messing around they did to hamstring those cards... There was a reason they ran so hot, that being they injected a ton of bogus calcs to slow the cards down so the 580/680/780s all looked better... With the newest drivers those cards run amazingly cooler and are fast as hell... I have a pair in SLI in my main desktop rig...

 

Will Dell cover up and fix it if you flash valid firmware from Dell’s download site? Aka if you brick your laptop and it’s out of warranty?

Have always been do it on your own risk with mod vBios/sBios. This is Not new. Up to the people.

 

In regards to BIOS flashing, if you use their utility, under their required parameters of usage, and you flash a Dell/Alienware authorized BIOS update and it reduces the functionality of the system (ie, it is a faulty BIOS, one that has reproducible flaws on other "known good" systems) then, yes, they are required to provide a "fix" to return the system back to full functionality.

If that BIOS update causes "known good" systems to brick (ie, if it is likely that an end user, following their procedures has a known "risk" of causing the system to brick doing the update) then, again, yes they are responsible for "fixing" the system to make it functional again.

Most companies are not ignorant to the flood of litigation they are opening themselves up to in providing such flawed updates, so they will, most times, have the end user send in their system and "fix" the reflash under good will. It has happened where certain manufacturers have had to replace entire motherboards because of a faulty flash and they cover the cost.

It is worth pointing out that some companies have also totally screwed their end users and end up charging them for the repair time. They may end up eating the cost of the motherboard, but they end up charging to do the swap and the cost to send the laptop back to the end-user. Again, this causes ill-will and ends up costing the company in the long run with burning end users that end up costing them in future hardware sales. Some companies are just arrogant like that. (ie, some will handle "corporate" customers with kid-gloves and bend over backwards, but retail consumers are treated like second class citizens because they don't view the profitability to be there to pander to them).

Honestly, I would expect Dell/Alienware to have a better track-record than that and if you can prove your system is unmodified, with Dell/Alienware authorized hardware/software (ie, SSDs/HDDs/memory/no custom BIOS/no override software used to modify running parameters vs what Dell/Alienware supplied, etc) and if a BIOS update reduces functionality (instability) or bricks entirely that they would have you send it in and evaluate it to make sure you didn't do something on your own to compromise your system and would end up working with the end user to make things right, especially if they know the supplied BIOS update causes issues...

As it stands 1.4.4 causes a whole lot of problems, regardless of MEI FW... There are consistent reports of it breaking the ability to use a Alienware Graphics Amplifier at all as just one example of a known "problem" of that BIOS.

At the moment I think they will deal with these things on a case-by-case basis. Meltdown/Spectre are still unresolved "formally" and everything that is out there is at the very least in a "prototype" stage, so until Intel has had a chance to get long-term feedback and addresses things in a more optimized fashion, those flashing the 1.4.4 BIOS are just guinea pigs for Dell/Alienware.

I don't think it is too far of a stretch to view the 1.4.4 BIOS being offered as an "good faith action" to show they are taking the Intel flaws seriously more than it is a "known final fix".

It is just sad that Dell/Alienware has decided to be so knee-jerk on these things. They pulled the BIOS when it was found out that it compromised systems, then re-released it when Microsoft issued a patch for it, all the while knowing it is not a "proper fix"... The big worry is if they "give up" on the Skylake systems and stick all of us with that as the "final BIOS" and abandon any more proper support for these systems. I would have to imagine there are plenty of extended warranty users that have warranties through 2019 at least (if not 2020) on some of these systems so they would almost "have to" deal with it appropriately once the dust settles and a set of proper fixes are implemented. But, again, who knows how long that will take (1 month, 3 months, 6 months, a year)???

 

Last time I checked when I download ME FW for 15 r3 the bin files were the same for 15 r2,17 r3,15 r3,13 r3 and 17 r4. And Prema Bin was same. With Same file meaning the SHA1/2 Hashes were one and the same as Win-raid link which is Stock Intel MEFW.
@VICKYGAMEBOY If you read at AMI aptio site which allows you to download their flasher utility, I think Dell missed /ME parameter.

 

I just got a reply from Plutomaniac from Win-raid that BIOS and MEI are separate entities and can be updated w/o any issue.
Do you really think AW/Dell allow you to flash modded BIOS/MEI FW? You're wrong you simply can't w/o using programer with Alligator clip or standard BIOS chip solder/de-solder.
There are heavy fortification on Dell and Lenovo BIOSes which needs unique Signatures for the flash to work and not to mention Boot Guard function on newer AWs.
Anyway there's a new MEI FW update 11.8.50.3448, so Dell can work it out to ship it.

 

Oh, I know the MEI is separate, the issue is that it is a "firmware level update"... ie, it is NOT meant for end-users to flash it regardless if Alienware can stop users from doing it or not...

The BIOS and the MEI is a matched set, since if it is unmatched (and even you could add OS-level drivers as a third-level of configuration) you can cause serious issues. THAT is the whole point.

Basically, everyone should wait for Dell/Alienware to do their jobs and engineer a proper solution. Until then the rest of this is moot since it is absolutely no different than flashing a custom BIOS to your built-in GTX980, it can be done, but it WILL void your warranty. Worst part is, if you screw up and brick your system, expect to pay a hefty repair bill with Dell/Alienware for your own stupidity.

 

Good luck with that if you are on EOL model or out of warranty. I'ts a luck of draw. All depends on how many machines who is bricked by the firmware.
Let's say 100 out of 3000 or 5000 machines being bricked by firmware, this won't justify "fixing" the system to make it functional again (free MB and repair). And it's up to you to convince Dell that you did it properly. They don't work with charity.

Intel has confirmed that the Microcode for Skylake work as intended. The reason Dell re-post previous firmware for downloads. MCU Recommendations. Intel.com

 

Hi. Please send me a PM with your service tag to check this for you.

 

i've got the same problem. could you please help me?

 

Seems like I'm not authorized to send PM

 

I think you need 5 posts to avail PM.

 

Update: sleep is also not an option, when it sleeps, it’s same as shut down (lightings on, not waking up, no reaction on power button until I long press it and turn power off completely)

 

Update Intel GPU to latest driver from Dell or Intel. Use Control Panel's uninstall option and DDU to cleanup older drivers.

 

It didn't help. And this is really getting worse last startup time was about 3 minutes

 

aren't you using secure boot?

 

ofc I’m using secure boot

 

Then 15 secs is too long on a SSD unless you're using 7.2k rpm HDD.

 

This is bad news. Because when I was on 1.2.3 on my 6700hq 17 R4 skylake based system, it started crashing. Now that I'm back on an older bios, it's been rock solid again.
Based on the file name of the 'new' bios, "Alienware_15R3_17R4_SKL1.2.3_KBL1.2.4.exe", yeah it looks like it's still got 1.2.3 for Skylake, but Kabylake is now 1.2.4.

I definitely won't be updating any time soon. Not only that, but my m.2 speeds tanked by 1/3rd of their speed.

 

How did you get back to the older BIOS? I thought they locked the 1.2.3 version due to the CPU microcode updates?

 

You can do a BIOS rollback using USB stick by looking at this thread

 

I updated to the 1.4.4 no startup lag everythings running smoothly, if you dont already have dell support assist app install it and check for other updates besides bios.

 

I am in the same boat...
With 1.4.4 I do not have issues. In fact it seems that my AW17R3 is more responsive and a bit faster in some cases... I ensured that I had all the drivers updated and the newest WU 10 updates before I flash the new bios.

I do think this have something to do with my lack of issues that is reported.

There is a new driver for the synaptics touchpad (version 19.2.17.64) and there is a new driver for the Intel HD graphics (22.20.16.4836)

 

Can you confirm if the new bios(Feb) has a update ME Firmware please.. Thank you..

 

I am on the version postet 18. January. The same version that is re-posted in Feb as far as I know. Others have tested this and confirmed that it is the same.Sorry if this is not helping.

Quote frem the 1.4.4 BIOS tead:

95TA: Well, it would look as if Dell decided that since Microsoft put out a software patch to stave off the reboot issues with the original CPU microcode patch that it would be a good idea to re-release the *SAME* flawed BIOS v1.4.4 that they did and pulled a few weeks ago...​

 

Try downloading this detection tool from intel to see if you are protected with INTEL-SA-00086 https://downloadcenter.intel.com/do...361.97715775.1519323794-1083239218.1519323794

Thanks.. Screenshot should be helpful if you can..

 

i can confirm this, 1.4.4 doesnt have the new intel ME firmware included, which is 11.8, in changelog they mentioned they upgraded intel ME.. but sad thing they dint, ur stuck with the godamn 11.0 firmware.. if u run intel SA tool, it will still how its vulnerable, they are internally testing the new firmware, it might come in a stand alone installer, but god knows when.. so far 1.4.4 bios fixes spectre and meltdown.. no problems watsoever.. lazy devs..

 

Yep so true.. I just wanted to let @ThomasAAT to try it so he will be aware.. Which is why @Vasudev Created this thread: http://forum.notebookreview.com/thr...-17-r3-or-possibly-other-bgas-as-well.813803/
Which is very helpful..

 

Done the test and it shows:

 

ok

WOW.. is your bios the Jan one or the Feb one?
Look at mine.. Bloody Hell.. hahahahahha.. I am afraid to reflash the bios 1.4.4 Feb version as I don't want to brick my laptop.. LOL

 

are u sure u got this 11.8 on 1.4.4 bios ?? or did u update manullay

 

@ThomasAAT Can you screenshot msinfo32 and what is your microsoft version and build? Thank you.

 

the latest official W10 FCU build number is 16299.248

 

Are you on that version? I was thinking maybe because my windows 10 is not the latest which is why it is showing vulnerable..

 

I am on the Jan 1.4.4 bios, that was pulled and re-posted 6. Feb. I have just flashed the bios and kept all my other drivers updated. I have not updated the ME, just flashed bios.

There was a windows patch that highlight the vulnerability. My build is Version 1709, build 16299.248

 

I am going to reflash my bios to the feb version after an hr.. Fuk it.. hahhaha.. if it bricks bad luck.. hahhahahha.. I'll have to use my bank warranty if ever it happens.. wish me luck..

 

i flashed to feb version many times, its the same 1.4.4 as before, nothings been changed.. check the SHA.. and file size. but im wondering how only Thomas got the new firmware included on BIOS 1.4.4 i still have the jan version as well, none of them updated my INTEL ME firmware.. confusing...

 

Oh ypu have tried flashing the feb version as well and no changes? geeeee.. Now I am thinking twice if I will reflash or not.. hmmmm.. do you have any idea how long will dell make a new bios?

 

last time someone from alienware posted he said they are aware of the issue, and i mentioned them about the missing intel me firmware on feb bios 1.4.4, he said he is aware, and their internal engineering team is working on that, he said he cant give any ETA, i guess we have to wait 1more month or so..

 

Yes, I can see how that is confusing... Perhaps I was lucky and the firmware got implemented as it supposed to? Not much help from AW/Dell as it seems that they are confused as well.

The only thing that I havent got is that the "intel capability licensing service client is obsolete".

My Intel Management Interface driver is 11.0.0.1172 (from dell's website)

 

As per AFUWin docs, Vendors can use /ME switch to update ME separately.

OP updated. http://forum.notebookreview.com/thr...-17-r3-or-possibly-other-bgas-as-well.813803/

 

Thanks!
I find it best to wait for a official update to the MEI driver for AW17R3. As VICKYGAMEBOY says, AW/Dell is aware of the issue about the missing intel me firmware.