REFInd - Boot Manager
rEFInd is an open source boot manager for computers that use the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI). It automatically detects operating systems and allows the user to select which one to boot from a graphical menu.
efi
bootloader
dual-boot
linux
windows
macos
rEFInd: Open Source Boot Manager
Automatically detects operating systems and provides a graphical menu to select which one to boot, making rEFInd an ideal choice for computers using the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI).
What is REFInd - Boot Manager?
rEFInd is an open source boot manager for computers that use the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI). It provides an alternative to the boot process used by default with EFI systems.
Some of the key features of rEFInd include:
- Automatic detection of EFI-capable operating systems that are installed on the computer
- A clean graphical user interface to select which OS to boot, with icons and descriptions
- Support for hotkey usage to boot directly into a specific OS
- Custom theming capabilities to match different aesthetics
- Driver support to launch non-EFI payloads like BIOS roms or Linux kernels
- Scripting to perform advanced pre-boot tasks
- Secure Boot compatibility
rEFInd aims to be lightweight, customizable, and user-friendly. It can help organize and streamline the boot process on UEFI systems with multiple operating systems installed. The open source nature allows advanced users to tweak rEFInd to their specific needs as well.
REFInd - Boot Manager Features
Features
- Detects and boots multiple operating systems
- Supports EFI/UEFI and BIOS systems
- Graphical boot menu with icons
- Supports hotkeys for selecting boot options
- Configurable boot options and settings
- Supports theming and customization of boot menu
- Auto-detects Linux, macOS, Windows, and other OSes
- Supports Secure Boot on UEFI systems
Pricing
- Open Source
- Free
Pros
Lightweight and fast boot
Easy to install and use
Very customizable and themeable
Actively developed and maintained
Supports many operating systems
Open source and free
Cons
Less features than some commercial boot managers
Requires some technical knowledge to customize
Not compatible with some older systems
Limited support for non-EFI/UEFI systems
Official Links
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