When a computer is turned on, a special type of absolute loader called ........... is executed.

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (4):
The correct option is **Bootstrap**. The term 'bootstrap' in computing refers to the entire process of starting up a computer, and the program that facilitates the very first steps is the **bootstrap loader**. This small, critical program is permanently stored in the computer's Read-Only Memory (ROM) or firmware, such as the BIOS or UEFI, and is the initial sequence of instructions the CPU executes upon receiving power. It is considered a special type of absolute loader because its primary function is to locate the full operating system kernel on a storage device, load it into a fixed, pre-determined memory location in RAM, and then transfer control to it, thereby initiating the full operating system.

The incorrect option is (1):
**Compile and go** describes a simple execution model where the entire source program is compiled and executed immediately without creating an intermediate object file or relying on a separate linker and loader. This process is typically confined to simple, single-file programs or small student compilers, where the compilation and loading occur as one continuous operation. It is an execution flow for a user-written program. It is not the name of the low-level, special loader program responsible for the initial power-on sequence and loading the operating system itself.

The incorrect option is (2):
The term **Boot** is an abbreviation for the entire 'bootstrapping' process and describes the *action* of starting a computer. The question specifically asks for the *special type of absolute loader* that is executed, which is the program itself. While the bootstrap loader is the agent that performs the boot, 'Boot' is the general name of the sequence from initial power to an operational system, making it a description of the overall event rather than the specific program executed.

The incorrect option is (3):
**Relating** is not a standard technical term in loader theory and is likely a confused reference to *Relocating*. A **Relocating Loader** is a powerful utility that modifies program addresses during the loading process so that a program can be executed from any area in the computer's memory. This is essential for modern multi-tasking. However, this functionality is performed by a more complex loader and linker, and the initial, fundamental loader executed at power-on is specifically the 'bootstrap' or 'Initial Program Loader'.