The scheduler.
bootstrap loader
In computing, a loaderis the part of an operating systemthat is responsible for loading programs. It is one of the essential stages in the process of starting a program, as it places programs into memory and prepares them for execution. Loading a program involves reading the contents of the executable file containing the program instructions into memory, and then carrying out other required preparatory tasks to prepare the executable for running. Once loading is complete, the operating system starts the program by passing control to the loaded program code.All operating systems that support program loading have loaders, apart from systems where code executes directly from ROM or in the case of highly specialized computer systems that only have a fixed set of specialized programs.
Basic Input/Output System (BIOS)
BIOS
The bootstrap loader
The process of loading operating system software into a computer's main memory from disk begins when the computer is powered on and the BIOS or firmware performs a power-on self-test (POST). Afterward, it locates the bootloader on the bootable disk, which is responsible for loading the operating system. The bootloader reads the operating system files from the disk and transfers them into the main memory (RAM). Once loaded, the operating system initializes hardware components and prepares the system for user interaction.
A bootstrap loader is a small program that initializes the operating system by loading it into memory when a computer is powered on or restarted. It is typically stored in a fixed location in the firmware or memory and is responsible for locating and loading the operating system kernel. In contrast, a bootstrap program refers more broadly to the collection of routines or instructions that prepare the system for execution, including tasks like setting up the environment and loading necessary drivers. Essentially, the bootstrap loader is a component of the broader bootstrap process managed by the bootstrap program.
When you boot a computer, you are basically loading the operating system and all of its components. These are necessary for the computer to run and to access your data and software. After the OS has loaded, your startup programs are loaded as well.
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is responsible for loading the operating system during the computer's boot-up process. It performs initial hardware checks, initializes system components, and identifies the bootable drives. Once the operating system is located, BIOS transfers control to it, allowing the system to start functioning. Additionally, it provides a set of low-level routines that the operating system can use to interact with hardware.
A BIOS password prevents a computer from loading the operating system. A login password is prevents the user from accessing the rest of the operating system such as their programs, internet etc.
Yes
booting