Reboot vs. Restart: What's the Difference?
By Sumera Saeed || Updated on September 29, 2023
"Reboot" typically refers to completely shutting down and then starting a system, often clearing its RAM. "Restart" means to stop and then immediately start a system or application without necessarily clearing RAM. Both terms are often used interchangeabl
Key Differences
"Reboot" is often used to signify a more complete reset of a system, where the device or computer is completely powered down and then powered back on. This usually involves clearing the RAM and temporary data. "Restart," on the other hand, generally implies a softer reset where the system stops and immediately starts back up without fully powering down.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Both "Reboot" and "Restart" are used in the context of computers, software, or electronic devices to indicate that the system needs to be refreshed. However, "Reboot" is also used in the media industry to indicate that a TV series or movie franchise is being revamped or relaunched. "Restart" does not share this usage.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
In common language, "Reboot" and "Restart" are often used interchangeably, especially for computers. Yet, if you are working in a technical environment, the distinction becomes more critical. "Reboot" usually involves a more thorough clearing of system settings, whereas "Restart" is often quicker and retains most settings.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
"Reboot" is also commonly used in IT as a specific term to indicate that you need to cut off power entirely before turning the device back on. "Restart" is usually implied to be a quicker action, one that retains data in the RAM and allows the system to come back online faster.
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023
Another difference can be seen in user guidance. If a technician suggests you "Reboot," they generally want a thorough reset of your system to resolve deeper issues. In contrast, a "Restart" is often suggested for solving minor glitches or to refresh an application, as it’s less disruptive and time-consuming.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
ADVERTISEMENT
Reboot and Restart Definitions
Reboot
To make significant changes to a project or system.
The project failed, so they decided to reboot it.
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023
Restart
To refresh a device by stopping and starting its software.
My phone was acting up, so I had to restart it.
Harlon Moss
Sep 18, 2023
Reboot
To fully shut down and restart a system, often clearing RAM.
I had to reboot my computer because it was freezing.
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023
Restart
To begin something again that has been interrupted.
The match will restart after the rain stops.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023
Reboot
In computing, to reload the operating system.
A software update required me to reboot.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Restart
In computing, to reload system processes without fully shutting down.
I did a quick restart to install updates.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Reboot
To turn (a computer's operating system) off and then on again; restart.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Restart
To stop and immediately start a system or application.
I had to restart the program because it crashed.
Harlon Moss
Sep 18, 2023
Reboot
To bring back (an earlier film or television show), usually with a new cast and updated script.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
A film or television show that is a remake of an earlier production, typically with a different or refreshed viewpoint.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Restart
The act of starting something again.
After the restart of my browser, the problem went away.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
(narratology) The restarting of a series' storyline, discarding all previous continuity.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
(widely considered a misuse) The restarting of a series' storyline without discarding previous continuity.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
To execute a computer's boot process, effectively resetting the computer and causing the operating system to reload, possibly after a system failure.
We need to reboot the system after installing these updates.
The system reboots every weekend after updates are installed.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
(by extension) To start afresh.
They rebooted the TV series, but it's even worse than the original.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
Cause to load (an operating system) and start the initial processes;
Boot your computer
Sumera Saeed
Apr 29, 2023
Reboot
A revamping or relaunching of a media franchise.
They're going to reboot the Batman movies.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
Reboot
To refresh a system by cutting off and restoring power.
You might need to reboot the router.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
FAQs
What does Reboot generally mean?
"Reboot" usually means a complete shutdown and restart of a system, often clearing RAM.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Can Reboot and Restart be used interchangeably?
Generally, yes, but in technical settings, the differences matter.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
What does Restart mean?
"Restart" means to stop and immediately start a system without fully shutting down.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
How long does a Reboot take?
Generally longer than a Restart because it involves a complete shutdown.
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023
Does a Reboot clear RAM?
Usually, it involves clearing the RAM and temporary data.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Is Restart technically specific?
Less so than Reboot; it’s generally a quicker action.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Is Restart used in other contexts?
Rarely, it's mainly used in the context of systems or applications.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023
Is Reboot used in contexts other than computing?
Yes, it is often used in the media industry to indicate a franchise relaunch.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023
How long does a Restart take?
Usually quicker than a Reboot as it doesn’t fully shut down the system.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Is Reboot more technically specific?
Yes, it's often used in technical contexts to indicate a full reset.
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023
When is a Reboot usually recommended?
For resolving deeper system issues or installing major updates.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
Is a Restart less disruptive?
Yes, it's often used for minor issues and is less time-consuming.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
Is a Reboot more disruptive?
Typically, yes, as it is more time-consuming and clears more settings.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 18, 2023
When is a Restart usually recommended?
For minor glitches or quick refreshes of an application or system.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
