Router Boot Sequence

Step1: Power on Self Test (POST)

It is an h/w test to verify that all components are operational and present.
POST is stored and run from ROM.

Step 2: Load and run bootstrap code

Bootstrap code is used to execute subsequent programs.

Finds the IOS s/w, loads and run it.
Not used until next time router is reloaded.

Step2.1: Find the IOS software

Bootstrap code finds the IOS image /software from the flash memory by default.
Configuration register and configuration file in the NVRAM help determine IOS
image.

Step.2.2: Load the IOS software

Bootstrap code loads the IOS image into RAM and starts IOS running.

Step 3: Find the configuration

By default IOS looks in NVRAM for a valid configuration file.

File is called start-up configuration.
If no configuration exists or is ignored, router enters in to setup mode.