Question

Which type of memory is used to store the BIOS (BASIC INPUT OUTPUT SYSTEM) in a computer?

• A. ROM
• B. DRAM
• C. Flash Memory
• D. SRAM

Hint:

Think about volatility. System firmware like BIOS must persist without power. This immediately rules out volatile memory types like DRAM and SRAM. ROM is the general category for non-volatile memory where data is permanently stored.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the function of BIOS. 
The BIOS is firmware used to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup) and to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs. It needs to be non-volatile, meaning its contents are preserved even when the power is turned off.

Step 2: Evaluate the memory types. 
(A) ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile and, in its classic form, is programmed at the factory. This fits the requirement for storing permanent firmware like the BIOS. 

(B) DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory) is volatile memory used as the main system memory. It loses its contents when power is removed. 

(C) Flash Memory is a type of non-volatile memory that can be electronically erased and reprogrammed. Modern motherboards use Flash Memory for the BIOS to allow for easy updates, but it is fundamentally a type of ROM (specifically, EEPROM). 

(D) SRAM (Static Random-Access Memory) is a type of volatile memory, typically used for CPU caches due to its high speed. 

Conclusion: Traditionally, BIOS is stored in ROM. While flash memory is the modern implementation, ROM is the correct general category.