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Empower your it: how to pxe boot surface book 2 for seamless deployments

Highlights

  • PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) booting allows you to boot a Surface Book 2 from a network, which can be useful for troubleshooting, installing an operating system, or running diagnostic tests.
  • If the boot image is not found, check the PXE server configuration and make sure the boot image is in the correct location.
  • You will need a Surface Book 2, a PXE server with a boot image, a network cable, and an external USB keyboard and mouse (optional).

PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) booting allows you to boot a Surface Book 2 from a network, which can be useful for troubleshooting, installing an operating system, or running diagnostic tests. This guide will provide detailed instructions on how to PXE boot a Surface Book 2, including the necessary BIOS settings and network configuration.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, ensure you have the following:

  • A Surface Book 2
  • A PXE server with a boot image
  • A network cable
  • An external USB keyboard and mouse (optional)

BIOS Settings

1. Power off the Surface Book 2.
2. Hold down the Volume Up button and press the Power button.
3. Release the Power button when the Surface logo appears, but continue holding down the Volume Up button.
4. Navigate to the “Security” tab using the Volume buttons.
5. Select “Secure Boot Configuration” and press Enter.
6. Change the “Secure Boot Control” setting to “Disabled.”
7. Change the “UEFI Boot Mode” setting to “Legacy.”
8. Press F10 to save the changes and exit the BIOS.

Network Configuration

1. Connect the Surface Book 2 to the network using the network cable.
2. Ensure the PXE server is configured correctly and the boot image is accessible.
3. Access the network settings on the Surface Book 2 (either through the BIOS or Windows).
4. Set the boot order to “Network” as the first option.

PXE Booting

1. Power on the Surface Book 2.
2. As soon as the Surface logo appears, press F12 to access the boot menu.
3. Select “Network” from the boot menu.
4. The Surface Book 2 will now attempt to PXE boot from the network.

Troubleshooting

  • If the Surface Book 2 is not PXE booting, verify the network connection and ensure the PXE server is accessible.
  • If the boot image is not found, check the PXE server configuration and make sure the boot image is in the correct location.
  • If you encounter any other issues, consult the Surface Book 2 documentation or contact Microsoft support.

Additional Notes

  • You may need to connect an external USB keyboard and mouse to navigate the BIOS and boot menu.
  • If you are using a custom boot image, ensure it is compatible with the Surface Book 2.
  • PXE booting can be used to install Windows, Linux, or other operating systems on the Surface Book 2.

Wrap-Up

By following these instructions, you can successfully PXE boot a Surface Book 2. This method provides a convenient and efficient way to troubleshoot, install operating systems, or perform diagnostic tests on your device.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Why would I need to PXE boot my Surface Book 2?
A: PXE booting allows you to boot your Surface Book 2 from a network, which can be useful for troubleshooting, installing an operating system, or running diagnostic tests.

Q: What are the prerequisites for PXE booting?
A: You will need a Surface Book 2, a PXE server with a boot image, a network cable, and an external USB keyboard and mouse (optional).

Q: How do I troubleshoot PXE booting issues?
A: Verify the network connection, ensure the PXE server is accessible, and check the boot image configuration. If you encounter any other issues, consult the Surface Book 2 documentation or contact Microsoft support.

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About the Author
My name is Michael, and I am passionate about all things laptops. With years of experience as a technology journalist and reviewer, I have an in-depth understanding of the latest and greatest laptops on the market.