What is a .EFI file?
The .EFI file extension stands for Extensible Firmware Interface File. It is a type of system file used primarily by computers with Intel processors and devices like AppleTVs. These files contain important system-level information that helps manage the interactions between the computer's operating system and its firmware.
An EFI file plays a crucial role in various system functions such as updating firmware, booting operating systems, and running programs before the operating system starts. For instance, when a device like a computer or an AppleTV needs a firmware update, the EFI file contains the necessary instructions and data to execute this update safely.
When you turn on a computer that doesn't have an operating system installed yet, the computer will look for EFI files on its connected drives to find the necessary information to boot up and potentially install an operating system. For example, during the installation of Windows 10, the computer searches for specific EFI files located typically at \EFI\boot\bootx64.efi or \EFI\boot\bootia32.efi within the installation media.
In computers that already have an operating system, EFI files are usually stored in a special hidden partition that is not directly accessible to users. For example, in Windows 10, this could be in a partition with paths like \EFI\boot\bootx64.efi or \EFI\boot\bootia32.efi.
To work with EFI files, you can use tools included in the EFI Developer Kit, which provides resources for developing and testing EFI applications.
It's important to note that the EFI standard was originally developed by Intel and has evolved into what is now known as the UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) standard. This newer standard is managed by the UEFI Forum and includes more features and enhanced capabilities compared to the original EFI specification.
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