What is the first step you perform when installing an operating system (OS)?

What is the first step you perform when installing an operating system (OS)?

• A. Access the basic input output system (BIOS)
• B. Insert installation disc
• C. Wipe the drive
• D. Back up data

Answer: (D)

Initiating the process of installing an operating system typically starts with ensuring that all important data currently on the device is backed up. This is crucial because the installation of a new OS can potentially erase existing data or alter system configurations. By backing up data, you safeguard against accidental loss, ensuring that important files, documents, and settings can be restored after the installation is complete. This step is foundational and sets the stage for a successful installation, allowing for a smooth transition to the new operating system while preserving essential information. Understanding this process underscores the importance of data integrity and user preparedness before making significant system changes. The other steps, such as accessing the BIOS, inserting the installation disc, or wiping the drive, typically follow the backup and are part of the installation procedure itself.

Initiating the process of installing an operating system typically starts with ensuring that all important data currently on the device is backed up. This is crucial because the installation of a new OS can potentially erase existing data or alter system configurations. By backing up data, you safeguard against accidental loss, ensuring that important files, documents, and settings can be restored after the installation is complete. This step is foundational and sets the stage for a successful installation, allowing for a smooth transition to the new operating system while preserving essential information.

Understanding this process underscores the importance of data integrity and user preparedness before making significant system changes. The other steps, such as accessing the BIOS, inserting the installation disc, or wiping the drive, typically follow the backup and are part of the installation procedure itself.