A method for "booting up" a multiple function device that involves first detecting the activation of the multiple function device. A 1.sup.st boot algorithm, retrieved from read-only memory, is executed to identify the location of a 2.sup.nd boot algorithm. The 2.sup.nd boot algorithm, retrieved from a specified location based on the booting inputs, is verified for executability. When the 2.sup.nd boot algorithm is executable, it is executed to retrieve the functional algorithms that configure the multiple function device in the desired configuration. When the 2.sup.nd boot algorithm is not executable, and the multiple function device is operably coupled to a host, the correct functional algorithm or a default functional algorithm is downloaded and executed to configure the multiple function device. When an executable functional algorithm cannot be retrieved from memory or the host, the multiple function device powers down after a predetermined amount of time.