diff --git a/hardware_init_review.pdf b/hardware_init_review.pdf index db88a30..9199a78 100644 Binary files a/hardware_init_review.pdf and b/hardware_init_review.pdf differ diff --git a/hardware_init_review.tex b/hardware_init_review.tex index c6d0abf..10092a7 100644 --- a/hardware_init_review.tex +++ b/hardware_init_review.tex @@ -1553,22 +1553,63 @@ hardware is increasingly outdated in the face of these complex, autonomous firmware components. -\chapter*{Conclusion [WIP]} +\chapter*{Conclusion} \addcontentsline{toc}{chapter}{Conclusion} - \section{Summary of key points} - \begin{itemize} - \item Recap of the evolution and current state of firmware - \item Importance of understanding modern BIOS functionalities - \item Summary of the ASUS KGPE-D16 mainboard's features and firmware contributions - \end{itemize} + This document has explored the evolution and current state of firmware, + particularly focusing on the transition from traditional BIOS to more + advanced firmware interfaces such as UEFI and \textit{coreboot}. The + evolution from a simple set of routines stored in ROM to complex systems + like UEFI and \textit{coreboot} highlights the growing importance of + firmware in modern computing. Firmware now plays a critical role not + only in hardware initialization but also in memory management, security, + and system performance optimization. \\ - \section{Call for action} - \begin{itemize} - \item Advocacy for free software-compatible hardware - \item Encouraging research and development in libre firmware solutions - \item A libre BIOS is very important\cite{coreboot_fsf}. - \end{itemize} + The study of the ASUS KGPE-D16 mainboard illustrates how firmware, + particularly \textit{coreboot}, plays a crucial role in the efficient + and secure operation of high-performance systems. The KGPE-D16, with its + support for free software-compatible firmware, exemplifies the potential + of libre firmware to deliver both high performance and freedom from + proprietary constraints. However, it is important to acknowledge that + the KGPE-D16 is not without its imperfections. The detailed analysis of + firmware components, such as the bootblock, romstage, and especially the + RAM initialization and training algorithms, reveals areas where the + firmware can be further refined to enhance system stability and + performance. These improvements are not only beneficial for the KGPE-D16 + but can also be applied to other boards, extending the impact of these + optimizations across a broader range of hardware. \\ + + Moreover, the discussion on modern firmware components such as ACPI, + SMM, UEFI, Intel ME, and AMD PSP demonstrates how these elements + abstract hardware from the operating system, creating a virtualized + environment where the OS operates more like a guest in a + hypervisor-controlled system. This abstraction raises important + considerations about control, security, and user freedom in contemporary + computing. + As we continue to witness the increasing complexity and influence of + firmware in computing, it becomes crucial to advocate for free + software-compatible hardware. The dependence on proprietary firmware and + the associated restrictions on user freedom are growing concerns that + need to be addressed. The development and adoption of libre firmware + solutions, such as \textit{coreboot} and GNU Boot, are essential steps + towards ensuring that users retain control over their hardware and + software environments. \\ + + It is imperative that the community of developers, researchers, and + users come together to support and contribute to the development of + free firmware. By fostering innovation and collaboration in this field, + we can advance towards a future where free software-compatible hardware + becomes the norm, ensuring that computing remains open, secure, and + under the control of its users. The significance of a libre BIOS cannot + be overstated, it is the foundation upon which a truly free and open + computing ecosystem can be built \cite{coreboot_fsf}. + The importance of the GNU Boot project cannot be + overstated. As a fully free firmware initiative, GNU Boot represents a + critical step towards achieving truly libre BIOSes, ensuring that users + can maintain full control over their hardware and firmware environments. + The continued development and support of GNU Boot are essential for + advancing the goals of free software and protecting user freedoms in the + increasingly complex landscape of modern computing. \\ \newpage diff --git a/hardware_init_review.toc b/hardware_init_review.toc index 7cd54a7..175321f 100644 --- a/hardware_init_review.toc +++ b/hardware_init_review.toc @@ -37,9 +37,7 @@ \contentsline {section}{\numberline {5.4}Intel and AMD: control beyond the OS}{30}{section.5.4}% \contentsline {section}{\numberline {5.5}The OS as a virtualized environment}{30}{section.5.5}% \contentsline {chapter}{Conclusion}{31}{chapter*.2}% -\contentsline {section}{\numberline {5.6}Summary of key points}{31}{section.5.6}% -\contentsline {section}{\numberline {5.7}Call for action}{31}{section.5.7}% -\contentsline {chapter}{Bibliography}{32}{section.5.7}% +\contentsline {chapter}{Bibliography}{32}{chapter*.2}% \contentsline {chapter}{List of Figures}{38}{chapter*.3}% \contentsline {chapter}{List of Listings}{39}{chapter*.3}% \contentsline {chapter}{GNU Free Documentation License}{40}{chapter*.5}%