What is network stack in bios?

The network stack in BIOS refers to a component of the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) firmware that handles network communication protocols. The BIOS is a firmware embedded on the computer's motherboard that initializes and controls the hardware components before the operating system takes over.

The network stack in BIOS typically includes a set of drivers and protocols that enable network connectivity at the pre-boot level. It allows the computer to communicate with the network even before the operating system is loaded. This functionality is helpful in scenarios such as network booting, remote management, or accessing the internet during system diagnostics.

Key features and components of the network stack in BIOS may include:

1. Pre-boot Execution Environment (PXE): PXE is a protocol that allows a computer to boot over the network and load an operating system image from a remote server. The network stack in BIOS often includes PXE support, enabling network booting capabilities.

2. Network Driver Interface Specification (NDIS): NDIS is a programming interface that allows network adapter hardware and network protocol software to communicate with each other. The network stack in BIOS may include NDIS drivers to interface with network adapters.

3. TCP/IP Support: The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is the foundational protocol suite for internet communication. The BIOS network stack can often include basic TCP/IP support, allowing for IP-based network connectivity.

4. Network Configuration: The network stack in BIOS may provide options to configure network settings, such as IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, DNS servers, etc. These settings can be useful when troubleshooting network connectivity issues before the operating system loads.

It's important to note that the network stack in BIOS typically offers limited functionality compared to network stacks provided by operating systems. Once the operating system takes control, it usually replaces the BIOS network stack with its own, more comprehensive network stack, providing additional features and better performance.