Definition
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware that initializes and tests hardware components when a computer is powered on, before handing control over to the operating system.
Key Point
BIOS Key Functions:
• POST (Power-On Self Test) - Verifies hardware components are functioning
• Bootstrapping - Loads the operating system from storage into memory
• Hardware detection and configuration
• Provides low-level routines for OS to access hardware
• POST (Power-On Self Test) - Verifies hardware components are functioning
• Bootstrapping - Loads the operating system from storage into memory
• Hardware detection and configuration
• Provides low-level routines for OS to access hardware
Key Point
Modern Replacements:
• UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) - Modern replacement for BIOS
• Supports larger hard drives, faster boot times, better security
• UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) - Modern replacement for BIOS
• Supports larger hard drives, faster boot times, better security