Update Dell Docking Station Firmware Safely – A Step-by-Step Guide

As someone who's spent hours troubleshooting malfunctioning docks, I know how frustrating it can be when USB ports, displays, or Ethernet just stop responding. Often, the culprit is outdated firmware. In this guide, I’ll Walk you through updating your Dell docking station firmware step by step—using both manual and automatic methods—to restore performance without risking device failure.

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Part 1. Why Firmware Updates Matter?

Importance of Firmware Updates

Your Dell docking station acts as a bridge between your laptop and all your external devices—monitors, USB drives, Ethernet, speakers, and more. But just like your laptop, it runs on firmware that needs to be updated regularly. Here’s why:

Fix Peripheral Issues

• Resolves problems where USB-C ports suddenly stop working

• Restores HDMI/DisplayPort detection for external monitors

• Fixes Ethernet disconnection and audio jack problems

Enhance Compatibility

• Ensures your dock works flawlessly with newer Dell laptops and Windows versions.

• Prevents conflicts introduced by OS or driver updates

Boost Thunderbolt & USB-C Performance

• Improves data transfer speeds

• Reduces latency for high-performance peripherals (like external GPUs or SSDs)

• Enhances charging capabilities for laptops that support power delivery

Security & Certification Compliance

• Patches vulnerabilities in older firmware

• Maintains Apple and USB-C protocol certification standards for enterprise use

Real Talk: I’ve personally had my Ethernet, and two display ports stop working on WD19TB after a Windows update. A quick firmware update fixed everything without having to replace the dock.

Supported Docking Station Models

Dell has released multiple docking station series over the years. Firmware updates are available and are strongly recommended for the following models:

WD Series
WD19, WD19DC, WD19TB, WD22TB4 – These are newer USB-C and Thunderbolt-capable docks widely used in offices

TB Series
TB16, TB18 – Older but powerful Thunderbolt 3 docking stations, still common in enterprise setups.

WD15 and Others
Entry-level USB-C docks—less powerful, but still benefit from firmware stability and charging updates.

Make sure to double-check your model number. It’s usually printed on the bottom of the dock or mentioned on the Dell support page via the connected laptop.

Preparation Checklist Before Updating

Before jumping into the firmware update process, follow these essential prep steps to ensure the update runs smoothly and doesn’t brick your device:

• Connect the Dock Properly
 – Use the original Dell USB-C or Thunderbolt cable
 – Connect to a compatible Dell laptop—not all third-party devices support Dell firmware update protocols

Update Your Laptop BIOS and Drivers
Go to Dell Support and enter your laptop's service tag

Install the latest:
  • BIOS update
  • Thunderbolt controller driver
  • Intel chipset drivers (optional but recommended)

Run as Administrator
Close all background applications, especially apps using dock-connected devices (like Zoom, external drives, or VPN clients)
Right-click the update file and Run as Administrator to ensure permissions aren’t blocked

Ensure Stable Power
Plug your laptop into AC power
Make sure the dock is also connected to power (especially for WD19TB and WD22TB4)
Avoid running updates on low battery or during power outages

Pro Tip: BIOS updates often contain fixes for Thunderbolt communication. I once tried updating firmware without updating BIOS and the dock update failed mid-process. After a BIOS update, it completed in seconds.

Part 2. How to Update Dell Docking Station Firmware

Method 1: Manual Update from Dell’s Website

If you prefer a hands-on approach or want to ensure you’re installing the exact firmware your dock needs, the manual method via Dell’s website is a reliable choice. This method is especially helpful if Dell Command Update doesn’t detect the dock or you want more control over the process.

Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

1. Visit the official Dell Support website.

1. Enter your docking station’s model number (e.g., WD19TB) or the service tag found on the dock itself.

1. Look for the latest firmware update package (.exe file) listed under “Downloads and Drivers.”

1. Download the file and right-click > Run as Administrator to launch the installer with proper permissions.

2. The update utility will begin flashing the firmware. Do not disconnect or power off during this time.

3. Once the update completes, follow these power cycle steps if prompted or if the dock behaves unexpectedly:
    • Unplug the dock’s power adapter
    • Hold the dock’s power button for 30 seconds
    • Plug it back in and reconnect to your laptop

I personally used this method to resolve an issue with a WD19TB where the DisplayPort wouldn’t detect my second monitor. After running the firmware update and power cycling the dock, everything worked perfectly again—no more screen flickering or blank output.

This method gives you more control over the process and ensures you're using the most compatible firmware for your exact dock model. It's straightforward, but be sure to close all applications and stay plugged into a power source to avoid interruption.

Method 2: Dell Command Update (Automatic)

1. Install Dell Command Update

1. Connect the dock and launch the app

2. Click "Check for Updates"

3. It’ll auto-detect firmware updates for your dock

4. Hit "Install", then restart if prompted

I recommend this for beginners, it’s safer, faster, and avoids the guesswork of downloading the wrong file.

Method 3: For Linux and Chrome OS

• Linux Users:

• Download the Linux update tool

• Run with sudo or appropriate permissions

• Chrome OS Users:

• Dock firmware updates are handled automatically via OS updates

• No manual steps required

Part 3. Tips for a Safe Update

• Never unplug the dock or shut down the laptop during an update

• Always power cycle if prompted after update

• If something fails, make sure:

• Your Thunderbolt drivers are current

• Your dock model matches the firmware version

• Try a different USB-C port if errors persist

Stay Productive with WPS Office During Updates

Firmware updates can temporarily disconnect your external displays, USB devices, and network adapters—bringing your workflow to a halt. But that doesn’t mean you have to sit idle. Personally, I rely on WPS Office as my go-to backup productivity suite whenever my Dell dock is offline. It launches quickly, runs smoothly on just my laptop screen, and lets me keep working uninterrupted during firmware updates or troubleshooting sessions.

Here’s how I make the most of WPS Office in these moments:

• WPS Writer – Perfect for drafting documents, taking notes, or writing client reports.

• WPS Spreadsheets – Great for tracking firmware bugs, logging update results, and planning fixes.

• WPS Presentation – Ideal for reviewing or editing slide decks without needing a second screen.

• WPS PDF – Lets me view, highlight, and annotate update guides or changelogs in real-time.

What really sets it apart are its AI-powered features. While waiting for a firmware install to finish, I’ve used WPS AI to summarize lengthy PDFs, extract key points, or even generate outlines for reports—saving me hours of manual work. It's free, cloud-synced, and doesn’t depend on external hardware, which makes it a perfect productivity companion during dock maintenance.

FAQs

Why should I update Dell docking station firmware?
To fix bugs, improve device stability, and maintain compatibility with newer Dell laptops and accessories.

Do I need to connect a laptop to update the dock?
Yes. The docking station must be connected via USB-C or Thunderbolt during the update process.

Can firmware updates fix ports not working?
Yes, especially for USB-C, DisplayPort, and Ethernet issues caused by compatibility or power delivery bugs.