The boot process

The sequence of events that occurs between the time that you turn on a computer and

the time that it is ready for you to issue commands is referred to as the boot process or

"booting" your computer. The term "boot" comes from the word "bootstrap," which

describes a small loop on the back of a boot. Just as you can pull on a big boot using a

small bootstrap, your computer boots up by first loading a small program into memory,

then it uses that small program to load a large operating system. Your computer's

small bootstrap program is built into special ROM (read-only memory) circuitry

that's housed in the computer's system unit. When you turn on a computer, the ROM

circuitry receives power and it begins the boot process.

With a Windows computer, the boot process usually proceeds smoothly and, in a short

time, you can begin working with your application software. Sometimes, however, the

boot process encounters a problem that must be fixed before you can begin a computing

session. You can fix many of the problems that a computer might encounter during the

boot process—a valuable skill for keeping your own computer up and running. Make

sure, however, that you follow the guidelines provided by your school or employer if

you encounter equipment problems with computers in school labs or your workplace.

What is the purpose of the boot process? The boot process involves a lot of flashing

lights, whirring noises, and beeping as your computer performs a set of diagnostic tests

called the power-on self-test (POST). The good news is that these tests can warn you if

certain crucial components of your computer system are out of order. The bad news is

that these tests cannot warn you of impending failures. Also, problems identified during

the boot process usually must be fixed before you can start a computing session.

The boot process serves an additional purpose—loading the operating system from the

hard disk and into memory so that it can help the computer carry out basic operations.

Without the operating system, a computer's CPU is pretty much unable to communicate

with any input, output, or storage devices. It can't display information, accept

commands, store data, or run any application software. Therefore, loading the operating

system is a crucial step in the boot process.

Questions:

a. What is a boot process?

b. Name the two uses of a boot process.

c. What is the role to play for ROM in the boot process?

d. There are two types of boot process, warm boot and cold boot. Briefly describe

these two terms.

e. Briefly explain why in the right beginning the operating system (i) cannot be put

in the ROM, and (ii) cannot be found in the RAM.