In the context of computers, "booting" refers to the process of starting up a computer system and loading its operating system into memory. When you turn on a computer or restart it, the computer goes through a sequence of steps to initialize its hardware components and launch the operating system so that you can start using the computer.
Here's a simplified overview of the booting process:
Power-On Self-Test (POST): When you turn on a computer, it undergoes a self-diagnostic test called POST. During this phase, the computer's hardware components, such as the processor, memory, and storage devices, are checked to ensure they are functioning properly.
BIOS/UEFI Initialization: The Basic Input/output System (BIOS) or the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is responsible for initializing hardware components and providing a bridge between the hardware and the operating system. It contains instructions on how to boot the computer and where to find the operating system.
Boot Loader: After the hardware is initialized, the BIOS/UEFI looks for a bootable device, typically the computer's hard drive or SSD, where the operating system is installed. It loads a small program called the boot loader from the bootable device into the computer's memory (RAM). The boot loader is responsible for loading the operating system kernel into memory.
Operating System Kernel: The boot loader loads the operating system kernel into memory. The kernel is the core part of the operating system that manages hardware resources and provides essential services for other software programs.
Operating System Initialization: Once the kernel is loaded, the operating system initializes various system components, loads device drivers, and starts essential system services. After this initialization process is complete, the operating system presents the user with a login screen or desktop environment, and the computer is ready for use.
This entire process, from turning on the computer to the point where the operating system is ready for use, is collectively referred to as "booting" the computer.
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