Hardware⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix: Tried to dual-boot ubuntu and win10, got RST error, switched to AHCI and now windows won't boot

Error fixing RST to AHCI for dual-booting Ubuntu and Windows 10.

Quick Answer: Switch back to RST mode, as it resolved the issue in your case.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 🔍 Why This Happens
  2. 🚀 How to Resolve This Issue
  3. 💡 Conclusion

The error 'RST needing to be changed to AHCI' occurs when attempting to dual-boot Windows 10 and Ubuntu on systems with Intel RST (Intel Rapid Storage Technology) enabled. This issue affects users who have installed UEFI firmware on their Dell Inspiron 3583 laptops, which can cause compatibility problems during the installation process. The frustration lies in the fact that the error message is misleading, leading to a restart loop, and users are unable to create a Windows recovery disc or USB, making it difficult to recover from the failed installation.

Despite the initial failure, switching back to RST mode resolved the issue temporarily, but left the system in an unstable state. Fortunately, alternative methods have been discovered to enable AHCI mode and resolve the problem.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • The primary reason for this error is that Intel RST is not compatible with UEFI firmware on Dell Inspiron 3583 laptops. When attempting to install Windows 10 alongside Ubuntu, the system recognizes the RST drive as a storage controller, which causes the installation process to fail. Switching to AHCI mode resolves the issue by disabling the RST functionality.
  • Another possible cause is that the system's UEFI firmware is not properly configured or is outdated, leading to compatibility issues with Intel RST and Windows 10.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Enabling AHCI Mode through BIOS Settings

  1. Step 1: Restart the computer and enter the BIOS settings by pressing the designated key (usually F2, F12, or Del). Navigate to the Advanced Tab and look for the Storage or Boot settings. Disable Intel RST and set the storage mode to AHCI. Save the changes and exit the BIOS settings.
  2. Step 2: Insert a USB flash drive containing the Windows installation media and restart the computer. The system should boot from the USB drive and begin the installation process. If prompted, select the AHCI option and proceed with the installation.
  3. Step 3: After completing the Windows 10 installation, ensure that the system is set to use AHCI mode by restarting the computer and entering the BIOS settings again. Verify that Intel RST is disabled and the storage mode is set to AHCI.

Enabling AHCI Mode through a Third-Party Tool

  1. Step 1: Download and install a third-party tool, such as Intel Rapid Storage Technology Driver Installer (IRSTDI), from a reputable source. Run the installer and follow the prompts to enable AHCI mode on the system.
  2. Step 2: Restart the computer after installing the tool and enter the BIOS settings to verify that Intel RST is disabled and the storage mode is set to AHCI.

💡 Conclusion

To resolve the 'RST needing to be changed to AHCI' error, users can try enabling AHCI mode through either BIOS settings or a third-party tool. By following these steps, it should be possible to boot Windows 10 successfully alongside Ubuntu on systems with Intel RST enabled.

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