BIOS is an acronym that stands for “Basic Input/Output System” it is stored on the motherboard itself and is the first software to run when the computer is powered on. The BIOS performs a POST (Power On Self Test) check to verify that all components are present and functioning properly before running through the boot sequence. The BIOS normally contains a number of settings for the computer, some of which will be standard such as what the boot order should be. Other options will only be available if suitable hardware is present such as disabling touchscreen functionality or overclocking settings.
Technipages Explains Bios
The BIOS is a piece of software that underpins the startup process of computers. Originally invented by IBM in 1975 the BIOS was stored on a physical microchip on the motherboard, modern motherboards now store the BIOS in flash memory, which allows for the bios to be easily updated to address security issues or add new features without having to replace a physical chip. However, storing the BIOS on memory like this has also lead the creation of a type of virus called “rootkits”. By infecting the BIOS the virus is able to reinfect the operating system if it has not been properly cleaned from both the operating system and the BIOS.
The BIOS isn’t an operating system itself, its purpose is to check the computer is functioning correctly and then to load the operating system and hand over control to it.
The BIOS is slowly being replaced with UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) this performs the same process but has a number of design improvements including support for larger hard drives. UEFI will sometimes be referred to as “UEFI BIOS” and BIOS is more commonly being referred to as “Legacy BIOS”.
Common Uses of Bios
- I need to boot into the BIOS to change my boot order.
- I need to update my BIOS.
- Without a BIOS, a computer is little more than pieces of metal.
Common Misuses of Bios
- Bios stands for binary operating system.
