"Understanding 'PXE Boot via IPv6': Explanation, Issues, and Resolutions"
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In this article, we'll walk you through a step-by-step guide to resolve the "Start PXE Over IPv6" error that may occur when your computer attempts to network boot (PXE boot) via IPv6 and fails to find a bootable device like the hard drive or SSD with a valid OS.
Hannah Dillon, a Technology Writer and Editor, has compiled this guide to help you navigate through the process. Hannah graduated with a B.A. in Journalism from North Dakota State University in 2013.
Change the Boot Order
The most common solution is to change the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings to prioritize your hard drive/SSD or other local boot devices before the network boot option (PXE).
- Restart the computer and enter BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing F2, DEL, ESC, or F12 repeatedly during startup).
- Go to the Boot tab/menu.
- Set your primary boot device to your hard drive/SSD instead of network boot.
- Disable PXE boot or move it down the boot order list.
- Save changes and exit.
Reset BIOS/UEFI to Factory Defaults
If changing the boot order doesn't work, resetting BIOS/UEFI settings to their factory defaults may help.
- Restart your computer.
- Open the BIOS/UEFI.
- Locate the BIOS/UEFI reset button.
- Click the reset button.
Disable Legacy BIOS Mode
If your computer was set up in UEFI mode, issues can occur if it gets switched to Legacy mode. To ensure your system doesn't mix modes, disable Legacy BIOS mode and enable UEFI mode if your system supports it.
Ensure Your Boot Device is Detected and Functional
The error often indicates that the internal boot drive is not found or not bootable. To confirm your boot device is present and functional:
- Check both the power cable and the data cable for HDD or 2.5" SSD, and make sure the drive is fully and securely seated into its slot for M.2 or mSATA SSD.
- Users should also check if their BIOS/UEFI is in Legacy mode, as that can cause the error.
Additional Tips
- If you have any bootable media inserted into your computer, removing it may resolve the error.
- The CHKDSK command can potentially fix errors on storage devices, which may resolve the "Start PXE over IPv6" error.
- If your BIOS is outdated, updating it manually can potentially fix the "Start PXE over IPv6" error.
- If you're not confident in updating the BIOS yourself, bring your computer to a computer repair shop and ask for assistance.
Video Assistance
For further assistance, the article provides a video to guide you through the process. Additionally, the article offers buttons to open the BIOS/UEFI for popular motherboard brands.
Advanced Configurations
For network boot environments such as OpenStack or enterprise provisioning setups, configuring PXE server files or firmware settings may be necessary. Verifying UEFI secure boot settings and certificates can also be relevant in advanced PXE configurations. However, for most users, adjusting boot order and BIOS modes is enough.
[1] [Link to a source for advanced configurations] [2] [Link to a source for UEFI secure boot settings and certificates] [3] [Link to a source for motherboard manufacturer-specific BIOS/UEFI Boot Mode names]
- If you're having trouble with your gadgets, technology, or devices not starting, learning how to change the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings can help prioritize your hard drive or SSD over network boot (PXE).
- To expand your gadgets' capabilities, you might need to learn about advanced configurations for network boot environments using technology, such as OpenStack or enterprise provisioning setups, which involve configuring PXE server files or firmware settings.
