User unable to Authorize Thunderbolt device/dock. The software is missing from the hidden icons.


1. Disconnect the Thunderbolt 3 dock from the system and remove its power cable so it turns off completely. Please keep it disconnected until prompted.

2. Uninstall the ‘Thunderbolt Software’ present on your system via the Control Panel -> Programs and Features.

3. Restart the system, even if not prompted.

4. Download and install the latest version of the Thunderbolt Software published by your system manufacturer. support.dell.com MAKE SURE YOU GET THE RIGHT SOFTWARE; very picky. Check dates/versions.

5. Restart the system once again, even if not prompted.

6. Reconnect the power cable to the Thunderbolt dock, and then reconnect the Thunderbolt cable from the dock to your system.

7. You should be prompted to authenticate/approve the dock. Please approve the device as shown in the example using the ‘Always Connect’ option. 

    There is a chance the approval prompt will not pop-up automatically. If that is the case please just proceed with the next step for now.  Find in the Hidden Icons.