What is BIOS?

BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System. It is a popular computer program that is used to configure and identify the hardware in a system such as the hard drive, floppy drive, optical drive, CPU, and memory. BIOS is the first software which starts running after turning on the computer. BIOS starting process is also known as the Boot process.

Facts About BIOS

• Gary Kildal an American computer Scientist developed BIOS in 1975.
• In the year 1981, BIOS was integrated with IBM’s First computer.
• Software giant Intel replaced the BIOS system with Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) in 2020.
• BIOS is a computer program installed in the motherboard of the device.

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What is the Use of BIOS?

BIOS is a computer program that works between the hardware of the computer and the operating system installed. It starts immediately after we turn on the computer. It ensures that the operating system is functioning properly. It enhances the performance of the computer and helps them work more efficiently.

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Functions of BIOS?

We have mentioned major 4 functions of the Basic Input Output System. 

1. Power On Self Test- POST function tests hardware before loading the operating system.
2. Bootstrap Loader- This function of the bootstrap loader locates the Operating System installed in the PC.
3. Complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) – This configuration of BIOS enables the user to alter computer hardware including system settings.
4. Software/Drivers- It finds drivers that help operate different devices of computers and sync with the operating system.

In the beginning, IBM was owning the BIOS technology but later other tech giants used IBM’s BIOS system to create their own. 

FAQs

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