Final answer:
The type of virus that targets computer hardware and software startup functions is the Boot Sector Virus.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of virus that targets computer hardware and software startup functions is the Boot Sector Virus. These viruses infect the boot sector of a computer's hard drive, which is responsible for loading the operating system during startup. Once infected, the boot sector virus can spread to other areas of the computer's memory and potentially cause damage to the system.