BIOS
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a non-volatile startup programme, a built-in core processor software that a computer's CPU uses to start the computer after it has been turned on.
It manages data flow between the operating system and attached devices (keyboard, mouse, hard drive, etc.)
What are the main functions of BIOS?
- POST (power-on self-test): checks the proper working of computer hardware before loading the operating system.
- Booting: responsible for locating and identifying the OS. If OS is found, the BIOS transmits control to it.
- Once the OS is up and running, this locates the applications and drivers that interact with it.