What does the term "boot process" refer to?

The term "boot process" refers specifically to the sequence of events that occur when a computer starts up. This process begins once the power is turned on and involves the computer’s firmware, usually the BIOS or UEFI, performing initial hardware checks and then loading the operating system from the storage device into memory.

During the boot process, essential tasks are undertaken, such as conducting a Power-On Self Test (POST), locating the operating system, loading necessary drivers, and initializing hardware components to make the system ready for use. This is a foundational aspect of computer functionality, as successfully completing the boot process is crucial to having a fully operational system.

In contrast, installing new applications, upgrading hardware components, and troubleshooting hardware errors are different procedures that take place within the operating system environment and do not relate to the initial startup sequence of the computer.