Remember BIOS
Full name: Basic Input/Output System
Memory aid: Basic startup gets Input and Output working.
Modern PCs typically use UEFI firmware instead.
Study area: Firmware & boot · Batch 1
Relevant study for: CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 · CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 · CompTIA Server+ · CompTIA Security+ SY0-701
Practice with exam flashcards →Hardware & Components / Knowledge library
BIOS — Basic Input/Output System
Initializes hardware and starts a legacy PC boot process.
Why learn BIOS — Basic Input/Output System?
Initializes hardware and starts a legacy PC boot process.
Where it came from
Modern PCs typically use UEFI firmware instead.
- Memory aid (a learning cue, not the expansion): Basic startup gets Input and Output working.
Build your understanding
Work through these exercises in order. Try the task before opening a reference.
- Without looking, expand BIOS: Basic Input/Output System.
- Recall this memory aid: Basic startup gets Input and Output working.
- Explain the practical use: Initializes hardware and starts a legacy PC boot process.
- Explain this distinction: Modern PCs typically use UEFI firmware instead.
- Identify BIOS in a device specification, architecture diagram, or system inventory.
Documentation and sources
- UEFI specifications (uefi.org)
- Microsoft TPM overview (learn.microsoft.com)