Windows - Secure HTTP Boot Message When Starting Computer Troubleshooting

Overview

If your computer is showing "Start PXE over IPv4", "Secure HTTP Boot", or trying to network boot instead of Windows, it usually means the computer cannot find a bootable internal drive or the boot order has changed. Please follow these steps in order to see if it resolves your issue.

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1. Check if the SSD is detected

  1. Power off the computer.
  2. Turn it on and repeatedly tap F2 to enter BIOS Setup.
  3. Go to Storage or System Information.
  4. Verify whether the internal SSD/NVMe drive is listed.

Results:

  • SSD is listed → Continue to Step 2.
  • SSD is NOT listed → Likely hardware failure or disconnected SSD. Device will need service - contact the Help Desk.

Step 2. Verify Boot Sequence

  1. In BIOS, go to Boot Configuration or Boot Sequence.
  2. Confirm Windows Boot Manager is present.
  3. Move Windows Boot Manager to the top of the boot order.
  4. Disable or move down:
    • Secure HTTP Boot
    • PXE Network Boot
    • IPv4 Boot
    • IPv6 Boot
  5. Save and Exit (usually F10).

Step 3. Run Dell Diagnostics

  1. Reboot and tap F12.
  2. Select Diagnostics.
  3. Run the hardware scan.

Pay particular attention to:

  • SSD/NVMe errors
  • Drive not detected messages

Step 4. If Windows Boot Manager is Missing

If the drive is detected but Windows Boot Manager is missing:

  1. In BIOS, confirm UEFI mode is enabled.
  2. Ensure Secure Boot is enabled.

Issues Remain?

If Windows still won't boot, the boot files may be corrupted and you will likely need:

  • A recovery key (if BitLocker protected)
  • Windows recovery media

Please contact the Help Desk for assistance.

 

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