bootloaderDatei

BootloaderDatei, or bootloader file, is a binary artifact produced by a bootloader build or update process. It contains executable code and data that a bootloader loads into memory during power-up or reset. Its primary role is to initialize hardware and transfer control to the operating system or main firmware image.

A typical bootloaderDatei includes a small startup program, a payload loader for the main image, and metadata such as version, size, and entry address. Some implementations wrap the payload in a container or use compression, integrity checks, and cryptographic signatures to ensure authenticity.

Formats vary by platform: raw binaries (.bin, .img), executables such as ELF, or microcontroller formats like UF2 or Intel HEX. The file is usually stored in non-volatile memory (flash) or on removable media and may reside at a fixed address or be located via an update interface (serial, USB, SD card).

On startup, a boot ROM or boot manager loads the bootloaderDatei, which initializes hardware, verifies or decrypts the main image, and jumps to its entry point. Many systems support dual images or recovery modes to facilitate safe updates.

Security considerations include digital signatures, secure boot, anti-rollback, and authenticated update mechanisms to prevent tampering.

See also Bootloader, Firmware, Secure boot.