Coconote
AI notes
AI voice & video notes
Export note
Try for free
Comprehensive BIOS Overview and Configuration Guide
Sep 21, 2024
BIOS Overview and Configuration
Accessing BIOS
BIOS loads when a computer starts.
Access BIOS configuration by pressing a specific key during startup (e.g., Delete, function keys).
Virtualization software like Hyper-V and VMware Workstation Player can allow BIOS access in Windows.
VirtualBox does not provide BIOS access.
UEFI BIOS simulators available online for offline simulation.
Fast Startup in Windows
Windows 8, 10, and 11 use Fast Startup, which prevents BIOS access at boot.
Fast Startup puts the system in a hibernated state rather than a full shutdown.
Bypass Fast Startup by holding Shift while clicking Restart or adjusting settings in Update & Security.
Interrupt the boot process three times to disable Fast Startup.
BIOS Configuration and Backup
It’s crucial to backup BIOS settings before making changes (notes, photos).
Incorrect BIOS changes can lead to boot failures.
BIOS Boot Sequence and Hardware Control
Control boot sequence (e.g., USB, SSD, hard drive) and hardware availability.
Disable specific hardware (e.g., USB ports) for security purposes.
Example: USB ports disabled by the U.S. Department of Defense in 2008 due to a security breach.
Cooling and Fan Control
BIOS settings can manage fan activity to control system temperature.
Integrated fan controllers adjust airflow based on system temperature.
Secure Boot
Part of UEFI specification, prevents unauthorized changes by verifying digital signatures.
Requires a digital signature from the OS manufacturer.
Secure Boot option available in BIOS settings.
BIOS Password Protection
User and supervisor passwords can restrict BIOS and OS access.
Passwords are stored in BIOS, not the OS.
Forgotten BIOS passwords may require resetting the BIOS via jumpers.
BIOS Reset and CMOS
Modern BIOS settings stored in flash memory, not CMOS, but terms still used.
Reset BIOS using motherboard jumper (e.g., CLRTC jumper).
Motherboard batteries maintain date and time settings.
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and Cryptographic Functions
TPM provides cryptographic functions and key management (e.g., full disk encryption).
TPM is secure against brute force attacks.
BIOS settings allow TPM configuration.
Hardware Security Module (HSM)
HSMs manage cryptographic keys and provide cryptographic acceleration.
Can be standalone devices or adapter cards.
Used for secure key management and can offload server cryptographic tasks.
📄
Full transcript