What is meant by "plug and play" in hardware configuration?

"Plug and play" refers to the automatic recognition and configuration of hardware components when they are connected to a computer system. This concept allows users to install new devices (like printers, keyboards, or external storage) without needing to manually configure settings or install drivers, as the operating system is designed to automatically detect the hardware, load the appropriate drivers if available, and set it up for immediate use.

This automatic process simplifies the user experience significantly, as it removes the complexities traditionally associated with adding new hardware. Users can connect a device, and the operating system handles the configuration seamlessly, enabling immediate functionality without extensive setup.

In terms of other options, a manual setup process does not align with the core purpose of plug and play, as it involves more user involvement. The ability of software to detect hardware conflicts is related to troubleshooting rather than the installation process itself. While upgrading existing hardware can involve plug and play features, it is not a defining characteristic of the term, which specifically focuses on the automatic detection and configuration at the initial connection stage.