computer configuration

{{Short description|Arrangement of computer hardware and software}}

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{{redirects|System settings|the MacOS application|System Settings}}

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.{{Cite web |title=What is a configuration file? |url=https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/linux/what-configuration-file |access-date=2025-01-16 |website=www.redhat.com |language=en}}

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.