INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SYSTEM DFC10033

NAME : THARUSHNAN A/L BALASUBRAMANIAM

CLASS : DDT1B
ID : 32DDT23F1007
 What is BIOS?

The BIOS is a fundamental component of a computer's hardware that stands for "Basic Input/Output System." It
is a small software program that is stored on a chip on the computer's motherboard. The primary function of the
BIOS is to initialize and manage the hardware components of the computer during the startup process. Here are
some of its key functions:

Power-On Self-Test (POST): When you turn on your computer, the BIOS performs a self-check called POST. It checks the hardware components like the CPU, RAM, storage drives,
and other peripherals to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Booting the Operating System: Once the POST is complete, the BIOS locates and loads the operating system (e.g., Windows, Linux) from the computer's storage device (usually a
hard drive or SSD). It does this by looking for the bootloader on the storage device.

Hardware Configuration: The BIOS stores information about the computer's hardware configuration, such as the date and time, boot order (which device to boot from first), and
various settings that can be customized by the user.

Security Features: The BIOS may also include security features like password protection and Secure Boot, which help prevent unauthorized access to the computer and ensure
that only trusted operating systems and drivers are loaded during startup.

Updating and Configuring the BIOS: Users can enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing a specific key, like F2 or Del, during startup) to configure various hardware
settings, update the BIOS firmware, and make changes to the system's behavior.

Legacy Support: The BIOS can provide compatibility for older hardware and software, allowing them to run on modern systems.

CMOS Battery: The BIOS settings and system clock are powered by a small battery called a CMOS battery. This battery ensures that BIOS settings are retained even when the
computer is powered off or unplugged. Over time, these batteries can lose their charge, which may lead to issues with BIOS settings being reset.
 How to open BIOS in
Windows 10?
1. BIOS Setup Utility: Users can access the BIOS setup utility by pressing a specific key during the computer's startup process. This key varies depending on the motherboard manufacturer but is often one of
the following: Delete (Del), F2, F10, or F12. Within the setup utility, users can configure various hardware settings, such as CPU clock speed, RAM timings, and boot device priorities.

2. BIOS Passwords: Some BIOS implementations allow users to set passwords to restrict access to the BIOS setup utility. This can help prevent unauthorized changes to the system's configuration. There are
typically two types of BIOS passwords: user passwords and supervisor (or admin) passwords.

3. CMOS Battery: The BIOS settings and system clock are powered by a small battery called a CMOS battery. This battery ensures that BIOS settings are retained even when the computer is powered off or
unplugged. Over time, these batteries can lose their charge, which may lead to issues with BIOS settings being reset.

4. BIOS Beep Codes: In the event of hardware errors or issues during the POST process, the BIOS can produce beep codes, which are audible signals that indicate the nature of the problem. Different
combinations of beeps correspond to different types of hardware failures, helping users or technicians diagnose and troubleshoot issues.

5. BIOS Updates: Manufacturers release BIOS updates to provide bug fixes, improve system stability, and add support for new hardware. Users can download the latest BIOS updates from the motherboard
manufacturer's website and install them, typically through a USB flash drive or specialized software within the BIOS.

6. Legacy and Compatibility Mode: Modern BIOS and UEFI implementations often include modes to ensure backward compatibility with older hardware and software. This allows older operating systems and
devices to function correctly on newer systems.

7. Overclocking: Enthusiast users often use the BIOS to overclock their CPUs, GPUs, and RAM to achieve higher performance. Overclocking involves increasing the clock speeds of these components beyond
their default specifications, but it should be done with caution as it can potentially damage hardware or lead to instability.

8. BIOS Backdoors: Some BIOS implementations have had vulnerabilities or backdoors that could potentially be exploited by malicious actors. Manufacturers regularly release updates to address such
security issues, underscoring the importance of keeping the BIOS up to date.
THANK YOU