Glossary
1. BIOS, UEFI, TPM, NVMe — What They Mean & Why They Matter
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)
• The startup program that runs when a computer first turns on.
• It checks that the hardware is working and decides what device to boot from (SSD, USB, etc.).
• Why it matters to you:
o You must go into BIOS to change boot order, enable/disable Secure Boot, and start BitRaser or Windows installations.
UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface)
• The newer, more modern version of BIOS.
• Faster, more secure, with graphical menus.
• Most laptops from 2015+ use UEFI.
• Why it matters to you:
o When installing Windows 11, UEFI mode + Secure Boot + TPM must be enabled.
TPM (Trusted Platform Module)
• A small security chip built into modern laptops.
• Required for Windows 11 installation.
• Why it matters to you:
o If TPM is off in BIOS, Windows 11 cannot install.
o Part of your setup checklist is making sure TPM is enabled.
NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express)
• The fast SSD storage inside modern laptops.
• Much faster than old spinning hard drives.
• Why it matters to you:
o BitRaser wipe is very fast on NVMe drives.
o If an NVMe drive is not detected, the laptop may need repair, or the storage may be missing.
2. Activation Lock vs Firmware Lock (MacBooks Only)
These two locks prevent stolen devices from being reused.
Volunteers must never attempt to bypass them.
Each lock must be checked during intake.
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Activation Lock
A security feature tied to the user’s Apple ID.
• If the previous owner was signed into iCloud (“Find My”), the device becomes Activation Locked.
• The laptop will show a screen asking for the previous owner’s Apple ID and password.
How you check it:
Turn on the Mac.
Go through the setup screens.
If it asks for the previous owner’s Apple ID → It is Activation Locked.
What to do:
• Set the laptop aside.
• Mark the device Activation Locked.
• TechCharities will contact the donor to request removal.
Firmware Lock (EFI Lock)
A password placed directly on the Mac’s internal firmware.
• Prevents you from entering recovery mode or changing startup options.
How you check it:
Turn off the Mac.
Hold Command + R (Intel Macs) or Power button (M-series Macs).
If a padlock icon appears asking for a password → Firmware Locked.