What Happens During Startup?
Original: What happens during startup?
Key topics
The startup process has sparked a lively discussion, with some commenters nostalgic for the simplicity of old computers like the Apple II and ZX80, which booted up quickly and were ready to use. In contrast, modern startup processes are complex, prompting one commenter to joke "Too gawd damn much!" Others have shared their experiences using the Linux boot process as an interview question, and recommending resources like linux-insides for those interested in learning more. The conversation has also touched on the trade-offs of progress, with some noting that the complexity of modern systems is a result of advancements in technology.
Snapshot generated from the HN discussion
Discussion Activity
Light discussionFirst comment
4d
Peak period
5
96-108h
Avg / period
2.5
Key moments
- 01Story posted
Aug 29, 2025 at 10:35 PM EDT
5 months ago
Step 01 - 02First comment
Sep 2, 2025 at 9:08 PM EDT
4d after posting
Step 02 - 03Peak activity
5 comments in 96-108h
Hottest window of the conversation
Step 03 - 04Latest activity
Sep 5, 2025 at 6:07 AM EDT
4 months ago
Step 04
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Too gawd damn much! Go back to an Apple II, An Atari 800, A Sinclare ZX80, You turn them on. They execute a few instructions and then are ready to use. Contrast to my linux boxes that are a million times faster but takes ~2 minutes until I can use them.
Yea, I know, things have changed for reasons
Still... It's sad to me how long things take to get started and all of those 100s and 1000s of layer are each full of vulnerabilities waiting to be discovered.