November 10, 2025

Tiny x64 Bootloader

A minimal 512-byte x64 boot sector that demonstrates BIOS boot process fundamentals including real mode initialization, segment register setup, and stack configuration.

Tiny x64 Bootloader

Tiny x64 Bootloader

A minimal 512-byte x64 boot sector that demonstrates BIOS boot process fundamentals including real mode initialization, segment register setup, and stack configuration.

Overview

This project is an exploration into low-level operating system development. It acts as a foundational boot sector that fits perfectly within the standard 512-byte limit of a Master Boot Record (MBR).

Key Features

  • Real Mode Initialization: Handles the transition and initialization phases immediately following BIOS hand-off.
  • Segment Register Setup: Correctly configures segment registers for memory addressing.
  • Stack Configuration: Sets up a functional stack for subroutines and operations.
  • Size Constraint: Optimized to fit strictly within 512 bytes.

Technologies Used

  • x86_64 Assembly - Written entirely in low-level assembly for absolute control.