Do you have a DVD R/RW- or a DVD R/RW+ ? It may be that the discs you have are the wrong type. You say your box is a year old so it IS possible that you have a + or a -. The newer ones work with both formats. Try calling Dell customer support and ask them which you have if you don't know. If all else fails buy a new burner for around $50 and install it. That definitely will solve your problem.