# Computer configuration

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Arrangement of computer hardware and software

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"System settings" redirects here. For the MacOS application, see [System Settings](/source/System_Settings).

In [communications](/source/Information_systems) or [computer systems](/source/Computer_system), 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](/source/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](/source/Configuration_file). In modern computer systems, this is [created and updated automatically](/source/Auto-configuration) 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.[1]

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](/source/Accessibility) options (such as the default size of the [system font](/source/System_font)), brightness and contrast; security and privacy; network selection and so on.

## See also

- [Auto-configuration](/source/Auto-configuration) – Automatic configuration of peripherals

- [BIOS settings](/source/BIOS_settings) – Firmware for hardware initialization and OS runtime servicesPages displaying short descriptions of redirect targets

- [Configuration management](/source/Configuration_management) – Process for maintaining consistency of a product attributes with its design - [Software configuration management](/source/Software_configuration_management) – Tracking and controlling software changes

- [Configuration file](/source/Configuration_file) – File holding settings for a computer program

- [Configurator](/source/Configurator) – Personnel who configure systems

- [System Settings](/source/System_Settings) – MacOS application

- [Settings (Windows)](/source/Settings_(Windows)) – Configuration interface of Windows 8 or later

## References

1. **[^](#cite_ref-1)** ["What is a configuration file?"](https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/linux/what-configuration-file). *www.redhat.com*. Retrieved 2025-01-16.

- [Federal Standard 1037C](/source/Federal_Standard_1037C)

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