Dictionary · Certification Terminology
BIOS
BIOS — Basic Input/Output System
Hardware · Beginner
Legacy firmware that initializes hardware and starts a bootloader when a computer is powered on. Newer systems use a successor that can boot larger disks and secure the boot path.
It is the first software-like layer stored on the motherboard. You meet it when you change boot order or enable virtualization before the operating system loads.
Example: A technician opens the firmware setup to put the disk ahead of the network in the boot order.
Common misconception
- The setup screen and the firmware chip are related, but the screen is only the menu. The firmware runs even when you never open it.