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Home / Glossary / BIOS
Glossary · Device

BIOS

Basic Input/Output System

In plain language

The small program stored on a computer's motherboard that starts the hardware and hands over to the operating system.

The metaphor

Like the key turned in the ignition: nothing else happens until it starts the engine.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Runs when you press the power button.
  • Checks memory, disks and other parts.
  • Has a settings screen for boot order and passwords.
  • Replaced by UEFI on newer computers.
In practice
  • A tech sets a password to block changes to start-up settings.
  • A computer boots from a USB stick after a boot-order change.
  • A maker releases an update that fixes a flaw.

A question owners ask

Does it need updating?

Occasionally, when the maker publishes a security fix. Your IT provider can check.

Related terms
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