Alienware was formed in 1996 and in the first 10-years of their existence the company created a name for themselves in the enthusiast market. It did not matter if a consumer was looking for a high performance desktop, notebook or HTPC system because Alienware had something capable to offer. When combined with futuristic and distinctive styling they have always appealed to discerning users.

Back in 2006 there was a significant change behind the scenes at Alienware when they became part of the Dell Corporation. For the first 3-years of the changeover the products released by the two divisions continued under the existing branding with Dell continuing to use XPS for their high end enthusiast products.