The Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) is a specification that defines a software interface between an operating system and platform firmware, designed to replace the older BIOS firmware interface. EFI provides a more flexible pre-boot environment, enabling features like secure boot, faster startup, and support for large storage devices and modern hardware architectures.

Extensible Firmware Interface

A software interface is a boundary across which two separate components of a computer system exchange information. It allows different software systems to communicate with each other, enabling interoperability and modularity in software design.

software interface

An operating system (OS) is the fundamental software that manages computer hardware and software resources, providing common services for computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware, ensuring efficient execution of applications and user tasks.

operating system

platform firmware

BIOS firmware interface

The Pre-boot Environment is a crucial phase in a computer's startup process where the system initializes hardware components and prepares the environment for the operating system to load. It involves executing firmware instructions, such as BIOS or UEFI, to set up essential system functions and manage boot devices before handing control over to the OS loader.

pre-boot environment

Secure Boot is a security standard designed to ensure that a device boots using only software that is trusted by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). By verifying the digital signatures of boot loaders, operating systems, and other critical components, it helps protect against malicious software and unauthorized access during the boot process.

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