The basic window NT/2000 start up process is described below:
a) The partition boot sector loads Ntldr (NT Loader). It then switches the processor to protected mode, start the file system read the content of boot INI and determines the start up option and initially boots menu selection.
b) NT detect.com gathers hardware configuration data and passes this information to Ntldr.
c) The kernel loads Ntldr passes information collect by NT detect.com to Ntoskrnl.exe. Ntoskrnl then loads the kernel hardware.
d) Drives load and user logs on networking related components load simultaneously with other services and the begin log on prompt appear on screen. After a user logs on successfully, window update the last known good configuration information to reflect the current configuration state.
e) Plug and play detect and configures new devices.