The computer ROM is typically the location where operating system code and bootstrap code are stored. Since this is code that does not change often, it is stored in non-volatile memory so that its contents will not have to be reloaded from the disk each time power is lost.
The computer read-only memory (ROM) chips back up the computer software, which manages all operations of a machine, including executing instructions and processing data. Storing these functions in ROM saves valuable space on the less-secure hard drive. The innards of an old IBM laptop illustrate how computers work at their most basic level.