Boot is to initiate an automated routine that clears the memory loads the operating system, and prepares the computer for use. Included in the computer’s read-only memory (ROM) is the Power-On Self-Test (POST), which executes when the power is switched on (a cold boot). After a system crash or lockup occurs, one usually must the computer again or reboot, by pressing the Reset button or a key combination such as Ctrl+Alt+Del (IBM PCs and compatibles) or Ctrl+Command+Start (Macintoshes) (a warm boot). The term is derived from the expression “pulling oneself up by the bootstraps.” The process of starting the computer (cold boot) or restarting without turning off the power (warm boot). See cold boot, Power-On Self- Test (POST), warm boot. To terminate a user’s online connection, as in “to give them to.” See off.
Boot
