Boot is the process of loading an operating system (OS) into a computer’s memory in order to start the computer and run the applications installed on it. The process is often referred to as “booting up”.
The boot process can vary depending on the computer’s operating system. It usually involves loading a boot loader, such as the GRUB boot loader, which then loads the operating system kernel from the computer’s storage device. The computer then initializes necessary kernel processes and loads the operating system into memory. Once the operating system is loaded, the computer is ready to run applications or perform other tasks.
The boot process typically begins when the user presses the power button on the front of the computer. The computer reads the boot information stored on the motherboard, which tells it which devices to boot from. This information is usually stored in the BIOS (basic input/output system), a small firmware program stored on the motherboard.
Once the computer detects a bootable device, the boot loader is loaded, which then reads the operating system from the device. Depending on the type of operating system, the boot loader may display a boot menu or simply start the operating system automatically.
Once the operating system is loaded, it typically starts a few services and programs, such as a graphical login screen or a terminal window. After these initial services and programs have loaded, the user can begin interacting with the computer.
