What is "Start PXE over IPv4"?

If you've ever encountered the "Start PXE over IPv4" error during boot-up, you may have wondered what it means. Why does it happen, and how can you fix it? Let’s break it down.

What is PXE?

PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) is a technology that allows computers to boot over a network instead of from a local hard drive or other storage device. This is especially useful in corporate environments where it's necessary to deploy operating systems to multiple devices quickly, without physical intervention on each machine.

When you see the "Start PXE over IPv4" message, it means that the computer’s BIOS or UEFI is trying to boot from a network server using the IPv4 protocol, rather than from the local hard drive or other devices. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as incorrect BIOS settings or a damaged boot partition.

Why Does This Error Occur?

The main reasons the "Start PXE over IPv4" error might appear include:

  • No Bootable Device: The BIOS can't find a device with an operating system to boot from, like a hard drive or SSD. This could be due to a physical failure of the hard drive or incorrect boot order settings.
  • BIOS/UEFI Issues: If the BIOS/UEFI settings have been changed, such as during an OS installation, the computer might incorrectly attempt to search for a bootable device.
  • Hard Drive Errors: If the boot partition or file system is damaged, the computer may try to boot via PXE since it can't locate the necessary files on the hard drive.

How to Fix This Error?

There are several ways to resolve this issue:

  • Check the Boot Order in BIOS/UEFI: Go into your BIOS/UEFI settings and make sure the hard drive or SSD is set as the first boot device, with network devices listed afterward.
  • Check the Hard Drive Status: Use diagnostic tools to check the health of your hard drive. If it's damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
  • Check Device Connections: Sometimes the error can occur due to improperly connected cables. Make sure everything is plugged in correctly.
  • Try System Recovery: If boot files are corrupted, you may need to recover the system from an installation disk or bootable USB drive.