Dell server boot stuck initializing iDRAC

Last Updated: November 5th, 2020/Published On: August 9th, 2020/By /Views: 12822/

A dental client of ours had their server down. On the boot screen it stuck at: initializing iDRAC. We were unable get into BIOS or diagnostics and the iDRAC was not responding over the network.

We ran through the following troubleshooting options to try and get them back up and running quickly.

  • Power down, unplug power, hold power button down for 30 seconds, then power back up
  • Make sure to disconnect any USB devices, just in case
  • Disconnect the iDRAC (if it’s on a dedicated port)

None of these resolved the issue. Luckily, we found the fix.

The Fix

Reset the iDRAC by manually holding ”i” button down for 30 seconds. It soft resets the idrac yet keeps the config. After that, we updated the BIOS and the iDRAC to fix it the issue permanently.

You’ll know it’s working when the light shuts off and fans go crazy. (Must be done turned on)

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