Configuring computers

This process goes step by step “from the bottom up” — from basic equipment commands to creating a convenient work screen.

9.1. Basic equipment configuration (Firmware / BIOS / UEFI)

This is the very first level. When you press the power button, even before the system itself starts, the motherboard’s basic “firmware” is activated.

Its job is to:

• check that all parts are in place;
• recognize them;
• supply correct power;
• tell the computer on which disk the operating system lies, so as to hand control over to it.

9.2. Installing the operating system (OS)

This is deploying the main software environment (for example: Windows, Linux, or macOS).

Installation steps

• Memory formatting — a clean drive is divided into parts and prepared for writing files (similar to ruling pages in a new notebook).
• Installing drivers — small translator programs. They teach the OS to correctly understand your graphics card, Wi-Fi adapter, or sound card. Without drivers the image may be stretched, and sound may be absent.
• Network settings — issuing a unique IP address and configuring a Firewall — your digital “guard” that decides which data from the Internet is safe to let through and which should be blocked.

9.3. Creating a personal space

The final stage — adapting the system to you:

• Accounts — creating your profile with a password. For better security it is recommended to have an ordinary account for everyday work and a separate “Administrator” profile for serious changes.
• Programs — installing the tools you need: browsers, office suites, messengers, games, and so on.
• Convenience — wallpaper, language, text size, and automatic launch of favorite programs.