Key Concepts Explained
- Hardware Initialization: This stage involves the initialization of hardware components that are essential to the system’s operation. Every component—from the central processing unit (CPU) to memory modules, storage devices, and peripherals—goes through extensive self-tests and configuration procedures.
- UEFI/BIOS: An essential aspect of the boot process is the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), or its more recent equivalent, the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). It facilitates device startup and offers crucial features for system configuration, acting as a link between hardware and software.
- Bootloader: An essential part of the machine’s firmware, the bootloader’s job is to load the operating system kernel into memory.
What is Cold Booting?
Turning on a computer system after it has been shut off is known as “cold booting.” Usually, this is done by pushing the power button of the computer. Using cold booting, the “Power on Self-Test” (POST) is carried out. It is a series of system checks carried out when the boot process first begins.