When a computer is booted the checks the computer's components?

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When a computer is booted, a process called the Power-On Self-Test (POST) is typically performed. The POST is a diagnostic process during the initial startup of the computer, where the system checks its hardware components to ensure they are functioning correctly before the operating system is loaded.

Here's a brief overview of what happens during the POST:



  1. Power On:
  • The computer is powered on, and the central processing unit (CPU) begins executing instructions from the computer's firmware, which is typically stored in the system's BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface).
  1. Initialization:
  • The BIOS or UEFI initializes essential hardware components, such as the CPU, memory (RAM), and basic input/output devices.
  1. POST Sequence:
  • The POST sequence involves a series of diagnostic tests to check various hardware components, including the CPU, RAM, storage devices, graphics card, and other peripherals.
  1. Error Handling:
  • If the POST detects any issues or errors during the hardware checks, it typically generates error codes or messages to indicate the nature of the problem.
  1. Boot Device Selection:
  • After successful completion of the POST, the BIOS or UEFI identifies the boot devices (such as the hard drive, SSD, or external devices) and determines the order in which they should be checked for an operating system to load.
  1. Loading the Operating System.




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