In
communications
Communication is commonly defined as the transmission of information. Its precise definition is disputed and there are disagreements about whether Intention, unintentional or failed transmissions are included and whether communication not onl ...
or
computer system
A computer is a machine that can be programmed to automatically carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations (''computation''). Modern digital electronic computers can perform generic sets of operations known as ''programs'', wh ...
s, a configuration of a system refers to the arrangement of each of its functional units, according to their nature, number and chief characteristics. Often, configuration pertains to the choice of hardware, software,
firmware
In computing
Computing is any goal-oriented activity requiring, benefiting from, or creating computer, computing machinery. It includes the study and experimentation of algorithmic processes, and the development of both computer hardware, h ...
, and documentation. Along with its architecture, the configuration of a computer system affects both its function and performance.
The configuration of a computer is typically recorded in a
configuration file
A configuration file, a.k.a. config file, is a computer file, file that stores computer data, data used to configure a software system such as an application software, application, a server (computing), server or an operating system.
Some applic ...
. In modern computer systems, this is
created and updated automatically as physical components are added or removed. Applications may assume that the configuration file is an accurate representation of the physical configuration and act accordingly.
Most modern computer systems provide a mechanism called the system settings (or "control panel") that permits users to set their preferences. These include system
accessibility options (such as the default size of the
system font), brightness and contrast; security and privacy; network selection and so on.
See also
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References
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Federal Standard 1037C
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