Date First Published: 7th February 2024
Topic: Computer Systems
Subtopic: Computer Hardware
Article Type: Computer Terms & Definitions
Difficulty: MediumDifficulty Level: 7/10
Learn about what POST is in this article.
Stands for Power On Self Test. POST is a series of checks to ensure that all hardware is working properly before starting the boot process. If all tests pass, the startup process continues automatically. The computer will not continue to boot if any hardware components fail and will generate a visual code or beep code to indicate the error encountered. Today, most computers are so fast that they usually go through the POST operations with little indication unless there is a problem.
POST helps to identify the source of the problem that is preventing a computer from booting up and take appropriate action. If a computer won't start up because of a POST error, you can search online or read your motherboard documentation. A hardware component could be loosely connected, overheating, or bad and need replacing.
POST does not rely on the operating system and there does not need to be an operating system for it to run. The test is handled by the BIOS of the system, which checks that basic system devices and other hardware components, such as the processor, storage devices, and memory are present and working properly. Any errors come in the form of on-screen error messages, beep codes, and flashing LEDs.
The two main types of POST codes are:
Visual POST codes consist of two numbers that indicate the point the computer came across a hardware issue in the process of booting. This usually helps to identify the source of the problem. Most motherboards have a hexadecimal display that will show the code.
Beep codes are the audio equivalent of visual POST codes. If there is a problem with a hardware component that is preventing your computer from starting, you might hear a few beeps. These audio signals have exactly the same diagnostic functions as POST codes. For example, three beeps that repeat after a pause and happen when you power on your computer can indicate a problem with the system memory. Every motherboard manufacturer uses a different system of beep codes, so you should check your motherboard documentation to see if you can identify the issues.
Verifying that the necessary hardware passes tests ensures that the computer runs more stable. Without a POST, it would cause serious system stability issues and make it much harder to identify the cause of a problem. Overall, POST is an essential part of system troubleshooting because the boot-up can only proceed if the hardware is working correctly.
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