It is true that technology BIOS has evolved dramatically over time. Today, they remain a key element for starting and configuring computer systems. In the following lines we will review the different types of BIOS and their main features.
Although we have already discussed this topic before on this blog, it is worth remembering what the BIOS is (Basic Input / Output System). This component, fundamental in any computer, can be defined as a firmware program stored in a chip on the motherboard, which acts as a intermediary between the hardware and the operating system.
The BIOS starts running the moment the computer is turned on. It first starts a process called POST (Power-On Self-Test) consisting of make a hardware diagnosis; then loads the operating system into memory, thus allowing the computer startup.
Apart from this, users can configure certain hardware parameters through the BIOS, such as the boot order or processor speed, among others. Let's see below what types of BIOS there are and what their characteristics are:
What types of BIOS exist?
These are the types of BIOS that currently exist. As you can see, the range goes from the classic BIOS known to everyone to the most modern and advanced components:
Classic BIOS
La traditional solution, simple and efficient, which works perfectly on basic systems. The BIOS is stored in a ROM or EEPROM chip on the motherboard. It hardly consumes any resources and offers fast operation.
Another of its most notable features is the simplicity of its interface. The user can configure it from the same keyboard, without any further complications.
It must be said that, having been designed for older systems, it offers a slimited hardware support. It does not support large capacity disk partitions or offers support for advanced graphics. Also, it is slower and less secure than newer systems, such as UEFI.
UEFI
The UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) was born as a natural evolution of the traditional BIOS. In today's computers, UEFI has already replaced the classic BIOS, as it represents an improvement in all its capabilities.
What are the main differences? To start with, your ininterface offers a more visual design and allows the use of the mouseIt also overcomes previous limitations, supporting disk partitions larger than 2 TB and incorporating an integrated boot loader. To this we must add other improvements in terms of boot speed, security and compatibility.
Although it represents a leap forward with respect to the Traditional BIOS, it must also be said that Its configuration is somewhat more complex and sometimes requires the use of recent hardware. See: BIOS vs UEFI: Key Differences.
open-firmware
Another modern alternative to the traditional BIOS, although less commonly used. The open-firmware It has been designed with high performance systems, such as servers and workstations. Its main features include support for almost all operating systems, as well as being programmable, customizable and adaptable to all types of environments.
However, Open Firmware not a good choice for personal computers which is used by most users, as it is not compatible with x86-based systems. Also, Its configuration is very complex and it is not within everyone's reach.
Other types of BIOS
In addition to these three main types, there are other solutions that are still used in a relatively small number of ways, but which can also be interesting in some cases. These are other alternative BIOS types:
- AMI BIOS (American Megatrends Inc.), available in classic and modern versions with UEFI support. It is supported by most motherboard manufacturers, although it depends on them for updates.
- coreboot, an open source firmware designed to replace traditional BIOSes. It is optimized for super-fast OS loading, although it requires technical knowledge to use.
- Phoenix BIOS. This is a firmware developed by Phoenix Technologies and famous for its high degree of compatibility with different systems and devices.
What is my computer's BIOS?
If you've made it this far, you're probably wondering which of all the types of BIOS out there is, which one your computer has. To find out, we recommend following these steps:
In Windows you have to open write msinfo32 in the search box of the start menu. This way we access the System information, where we can review the section of «BIOS mode». If we use Linux, the command to use to obtain detailed information about the firmware es dmidecode.
By reviewing the characteristics of the different types of BIOS, we can trace the evolution of computing from its beginnings until today. CUnderstanding the differences between available firmware options (from the Basic BIOS to the most advanced UEFI) It is essential to be able to optimize the performance of our system and adapt it to our own needs.
Editor specialized in technology and internet issues with more than ten years of experience in different digital media. I have worked as an editor and content creator for e-commerce, communication, online marketing and advertising companies. I have also written on economics, finance and other sectors websites. My work is also my passion. Now, through my articles in Tecnobits, I try to explore all the news and new opportunities that the world of technology offers us every day to improve our lives.