Dell is one of the best-known manufacturers with a long history of creating computers for a variety of purposes. Traditionally, Dell has sold computers with proprietary software, but for some time now it has started to look favorably on Linux. So, is it possible to install Linux on Dell XPS 15? In this post, we will give answers to this and other questions.
Introduction – Dell and its XPS Computers
As an introduction, it is worth knowing that Dell is an American multinational company with its headquarters in Texas, founded by Michael Dell in the 80s. From these headquarters, the company designs manufacture develops and supports various computer equipment such as switches and above all computers.
Dell manufactures computers of all types, from professional servers to desktops to laptops. Each of these segments has a variety of models to suit all types of use and users.
This laptop computer is designed for demanding users without sacrificing a sleek and functional design.
With a Dell XPS 15, we can expect the best of the best concerning power. First, you’ll find 12th generation Intel processors; although the basic model comes with 8 GB of RAM, you can upgrade to 64 GB for the most demanding users.
All of this can be better utilized by adding the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 which is available in the configuration. Or by sticking with Intel UHD graphics which is a good option, for storage you can opt for up to 2 TB SSD.
On top of all this, you can expect everything you’d expect from a laptop: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, work-optimized battery, front-facing camera, USB 3.2, and Thunderbolt ports. Plus a lot more.
So, the Dell XPS is a high-performance computer with a modern design.
Does Dell Support Linux?
Historically, Dell supports Windows and this is still the case. Regarding Linux, it is not quite the same as Windows because it has been more recent and because many things are not strictly Dell-dependent.
However, it is fair to say that Dell keeps a good deal for Linux users because they provide products that come with Linux already installed. So, they themselves guarantee that the user experience will be optimized and real.
An example of this is that if Dell sells a computer with a Linux operating system installed, the user can purchase a support warranty with his computer. Furthermore, this user can expect Dell to cover the support of his computer up to the level of its warranty.
The only thing that Dell states are that if we replace the original system that came with the computer, we could lose part of the warranty. Or we will be required to reinstall the proprietary system to use it.
On the other hand, the company itself says it is delighted with the Linux community and its systems. So much so that their community forums are full of Linux-related topics.
So, in short, Dell’s support for Linux could be considered good. Although we always expect the best from this kind of company, the fact is that Dell sells Linux computers with all that that implies.
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Can you run Linux on Dell XPS 15?
Generally, you can run Linux on a Dell XPS 15. However, you may have some problems with models with Nvidia graphics cards. Of course, this is not Dell’s fault, but that’s the way it is.
In addition to this, it is possible that various features such as the use of screen brightness control or system hibernation cannot be performed correctly. Even the CPU Fan management may not be correct in the case of some distributions.
Another aspect that may annoy some users is that the fingerprint reader will not work, although it is expected to do so in the future.
So in summary, of course, we can run Linux on the Dell XPS 15, but the issue is that not all of its features will be fully exploited. Although this is not Dell’s fault because the issues are with the proprietary drivers, it is worth bearing this in mind before trying it.
How To Install Linux on Dell XPS 15?
Unlike other manufacturers, we don’t have to do much tweaking to install Linux. Just follow the normal procedure.
1. Backup your data
The first thing to do is always to make a backup of the most important data you have on the system. This will help if something goes wrong with the installation, at least we won’t lose all the information.
As I always recommend, this backup should be on a different storage unit than the computer.
2. Create a USB Bootable
To create a USB Bootable you only have to download essential applications such as Rufus (for Windows) or Etcher (Linux) which are the most recommended for being efficient and free.
For the choice of the distribution, it is not a bad idea to choose one that allows us to have a recent kernel as the latest ISO of Ubuntu 20.04 or another where we can update the kernel quickly.
3. Installing the Linux on Dell XPS 15
Once you connect your USB to the corresponding port, you have to reboot the computer and access the boot menu and select it as the boot method.
The rest of the process will continue as usual for the Linux distribution you have decided.
Just be careful with the partitioning scheme where it is always recommended not to completely remove Windows so that you have that system as a sort of full backup.
Conclusion
The Dell XPS 15 is one of the most expensive and powerful computers available today. It is obvious that a Linux user would want to install Linux on it to feel much more comfortable. In this post, we have taken you through the whole topic of installing Linux on Dell XPS 15.
Finally, it is worth noting that Dell allows users to install Linux on their computers because the company provides good support for it, but we cannot always get all the features of the equipment. So, think about it.