The BIOS is a program hard coded on a chip on your motherboard. It's job is to get your computer to a state where it can start to get up and running. BIOS stands for 'basic input / output system'. There are several manufacturers of BIOS chips, and although their setup screens may look different, they do basically the same thing: allow you to make basic settings for the hardware that is your computer.

You get to the BIOS setup utilty in your computer during the bootup process of your computer. You must do it quickly right after turning on your computer, or it will pass you right by. Usually you have to press either the DEL key, or F2 key, right after turning on the computer. Sometimes it is another key that you have to press, and you may have to consult your computers documentation or the manufacturer's website to find out how to get into the BIOS. These days, most computers have a splash screen that may prevent you from seeing how to get to the BIOS settings.

Navigating the BIOS setup utility can be a daunting task for the unitiated, and even for those that are seasoned veterans. New motherboards, with new chipsets and processors have many features that may need some explanation. This web article: Ultimate BIOS Guide, briefly describes most of the settings available on new motherboards, and at least will give you enough information to make searching for more information much easier.

Your mileage may vary, and always be very careful about messing about in your computer's BIOS. If you don't know what you are doing, consult with someone that does before mucking about, especially on a system that you must have up and running.