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Computer configuration

Arrangement of computer hardware and software

In communications or computer systems, a configuration of a system refers to the arrangement of each of its functional units, according to their nature, number and chief characteristics. Often, configuration pertains to the choice of hardware, software, firmware, and documentation. Along with its architecture, the configuration of a computer system affects both its function and performance.

The configuration of a computer is typically recorded in a configuration file. In modern computer systems, this is created and updated automatically as physical components are added or removed. Applications may assume that the configuration file is an accurate representation of the physical configuration and act accordingly.

Most modern computer systems provide a mechanism called the system settings (or "control panel") that permits users to set their preferences. These include system accessibility options (such as the default size of the system font), brightness and contrast; security and privacy; network selection and so on.

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This article is adapted from the Wikipedia article Computer configuration, written by its contributors and licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Fathomly has changed the layout, removed citation markers, navigation and maintenance notices, and adjusted punctuation. This adapted version is shared under the same license. For references, see the original article.

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