Overview
Dell Command Update (DCU) is an application used to update drivers, BIOS, and firmware for Dell computers. GVSU has deployed this software to all Windows 11-compatible devices to keep them up to date. To learn more about DCU, please click this link: https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000177325/dell-command-update.
Update Frequency
The application checks for updates on the first Tuesday of each month at noon. If updates are available, DCU will download them and start sending you notifications to install the downloaded updates. If the computer is not powered on at the time of the update check, the check will not be performed. A subsequent attempt will be made at the next update check interval.
Installation Options
After updates have been downloaded, DCU will send you a notification in the bottom right corner of your screen. You will be able to select one of two options: Install Now or Remind Later.
Install Now
Clicking the Install Now button starts the installation process for updates. While updates are being installed, the computer may act strangely. Peripherals may stop working, your screen may black out, flash, or flicker, and several other oddities may occur. This is normal during the driver update process and is nothing to be alarmed about.
Remind Later
Clicking the Remind Later button will begin the deferral process. You can defer updates up to three times, with each deferral lasting for eight hours. After all deferrals are used, at the end of the eight-hour deferral period, updates are automatically installed.
Restart Options
After updates have been installed, you will receive another pop-up message in the bottom right corner of your screen. This message will let you know there is now a pending restart scheduled for the computer. You can select either Restart or Remind Later.
Restart
Clicking the Restart button will restart the computer and complete the update installation process.
Remind Later
Clicking the Remind Later button will begin the update deferral process. You are able to defer the restart up to 5 times, with each deferral lasting for 24 hours. At the end of the final deferral, your computer will automatically restart, completing the update installation process.
Firmware and BIOS Updates – Timing Considerations
Firmware and BIOS updates are essential for system security, stability, and performance. However, these updates can take time to complete.
Best Practices for Scheduling Updates
- Perform updates outside of critical work hours to avoid disruptions.
- Ensure the device is plugged into a power source to prevent interruptions.
- Allow sufficient time for the update process to complete, as it may take several minutes and require reboots.
- Do not power off the device during the update, as this may cause system issues.
Manually Checking For Updates
As stated previously, DCU automatically checks for updates on the first Tuesday of each month at noon. You are also able to manually check for updates at any time. To manually check for updates, please follow these steps.
1. Click on the Search bar at the bottom of the screen and type Dell Command Update.
2. Click on Dell Command Update under Best match.
3. Click the Check button.
