Auto-configuration is the automatic configuration of devices without manual intervention, without any need for software configuration programs or jumpers. Ideally, auto-configuring devices should just "plug and play". Auto-configuration has been made common because of the low cost of microprocessors and other embedded controller devices.
Configurations may be stored in NVRAM, loaded by a host processor, or negotiated at system initialization time. In some cases, hot pluggable devices may be able to renegotiate their configuration.
Example of auto-configuring devices: USB
Example of auto-configuring devices and protocols: DHCP Zeroconf
See also Autoconfig, Amiga system for automatically setting up hardware peripherals FPGA Universal Plug and Play
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