autostart routine

autostart routine

[′ȯd·ō‚stärt rü‚tēn] (computer science) A set of instructions that is permanently stored in a computer memory and activated when the computer is turned on, to perform diagnostic tests and then load the operating system.

autostart routine

(1) Instructions built into a computer or other electronic device that are activated when it is turned on. The routine performs diagnostic tests, such as checking the computer's memory and then loads the operating system and passes control to it.

(2) The software that runs a program when a CD/DVD or USB drive is inserted into the computer. See AutoRun.