The computer code to start hardware is called the Basic Input Output System (BIOS). It also pulls double duty: the BIOS acts as the core set of rules to execute software. The rules apply to user installed software, like games, and even the entire operating system, like Windows. The BIOS is located on a piece of memory hardware inside the computer, but not on the hard drive. In the past, this piece of memory was a ROM (Read Only Memory) chip attached to the processor. Today, computer systems hold the BIOS on readable and writable flash memory chips.
Press the power button on– the processor starts working, the hard disk begins spinning, and the fan makes a familiar whirring sound. But how does the processor know to start the operating system on the hard disk? The code in the BIOS is the first set of commands a processor follows, and eventually it gets to executing other software on the hard drive.
We all see the BIOS sequence in action - it’s the black screen with quickly scrolling white typeface. Catching bits and pieces, you will notice the computer runs manual checks for the basic hardware components of the computer. BIOS helps the computer recognize the keyboard, mouse, monitor, and all other peripherals. Think of this like roll call before a class starts, and BIOS is the teacher.
Once hardware is physically confirmed and responding to the computer’s commands, the processor will boot the operating system. Operating systems are software solutions expanding a computer’s program management beyond the BIOS commands. Bottom line: if the BIOS is broken, corrupted, or modified incorrectly the computer will not boot. Problems with the BIOS are characterized by “The computer won’t turn on” phrase.
Since BIOS code is now contained on flash memory, the write-to ability of the BIOS is a double-edged sword. On one side, users effortlessly update their BIOS to satisfy new operating system requirements, through manufacturer approved methods. On the other side, the BIOS is vulnerable to BIOS-based viral and spyware attacks. Malware can modify boot settings and cause system, hardware, and software failures.
To solve BIOS problems, users can access the BIOS settings by watching for the line “Press (key combination for your system) to Enter Setup.” This will open a DOS styled screen utilizing function and arrow keys for navigation. Here users can potentially repair any errors in the boot sequence, or turn on and off detection of hardware based on the systems physical configuration. Exercise great caution as any saved changes will reboot the system. Mistakes can make it near impossible to correct these accidental modifications, since the reboot will follow the new incorrect boot sequence.
The BIOS is an integral component of the computer system. Do not attempt to physically repair the BIOS. The micro-sized electronics inside the computer are fragile, temperamental, and can surprisingly cause injury or fire when improperly connected. Look at it this way, if a lamp cord showed a problem, would you cut the plastic and try to repair the wire yourself? Even though the microprocessor and BIOS are some of the smallest components to the computer, replacement is expensive. Protect your BIOS from viruses with professional software solutions, and do not access Setup except in dire circumstances.
Elizabeth Ann West | July 30th, 2008
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