opstartlaadprogramma
An opstartlaadprogramma, often referred to as a bootloader, is a specialized program responsible for initiating the operating system when a computer is first turned on. Its primary function is to load the operating system kernel from storage into the computer's memory, allowing the system to begin its startup sequence. Without a bootloader, the computer would not know how to access and run the operating system.
Different types of bootloaders exist, with some of the most common being GRUB (GRand Unified Bootloader) and
The process usually begins when the BIOS or UEFI firmware on the motherboard completes its Power-On Self-Test