What Is Firmware? Firmware Definition, Types and Examples

If you're in the technology spaces, you've likely heard of firm software before. You may even see notifications periodically about updating your device's firmware. Firmware is the software that powers your hardware, operating in the background to ensure that your devices function correctly. In this article, learn what firmware is, how it works, and how you interact with it on your devices.

What is firmware?

Firmware is a type of software that's embedded into a hardware device's read-only memory to control its operation. Any devices you might think of as hardware, such as cameras, network interface cards, optical drives, printers, routers, or scanners, rely on firmware stored in their special memory to run smoothly.

Essentially, firm software allows your computer to boot up, communicate with other devices, and handle low-level operations. Without it, a machine won't work as intended. The machine would simply be a collection of individual electronic parts with no instructions on how to work together.

Think of firm software as the bridge between a device's physical components and its software. Because of firmware's importance, it stays in a secure, non-volatile memory chip. A non-volatile memory is a form of static random access memory that retains stored information even when the hardware device is turned off.

It doesn't need a continuous power source to preserve its content, which means the data does not erase when the device powers off. Read-only memory, or ROM, is a good example of this.

Unlike traditional software, you can't erase or modify firm software without using specific programs. The data remains on the device whether switched on or off. The manufacturers of hardware program firm software and install it on the hardware device right in the factory.

They regularly release firmware updates to roll out new features for a device. Other reasons for fixing it include fixing bugs, enhancing the device's performance, and keeping its hardware compatible with new media.

How does firmware work?

The purpose of firm software is to provide low-level control for a device's specific hardware. It's essentially the software that tells the hardware what to do and how to do it. It's like the brain of a device, coordinating all of its functions.

Firmware works by issuing lower-level machine language instructions directly to the components of a device. These instructions initiate basic operations required for the device to function.

The aim is to get a device up and running by managing fundamental processes. For example, the firmware in a printer will include instructions on how to interpret print commands and communicate with other components. When you first set up a device, the firm software is responsible for executing the basic functions needed for the device to operate. This includes initializing all the hardware components, like the central processing unit, checking for connected peripherals, and establishing communication protocols.

For simple devices with minimal software requirements, such as a computer mouse, the firm software continues to provide basic functions directly to the user.

For more complex devices, such as a laptop, firmware often initiates the process of loading the operating system. Once the operating system is running, it tends to take a backseat to allow the installed software to handle higher-level tasks.

Where is firmware found?

The location of your device's firmware depends on the device itself. In general, the code is written in one of these three types of memory.

• ROM (read-only memory): This is permanent storage used in many electronic devices.
• EPROM (erasable programmable read-only memory): The memory storage retains data even when the power is off. Someone can, however, erase and rewrite it using special equipment.
• Flash memory: This memory is easily erased and rewritten electronically, making it ideal for firmware updates.

Newer devices often use flash memory because it offers the flexibility of reprogramming and updating the code as needed.

Examples of firmware

We all know that firm software is mostly found in computing devices. In computers, the firmware memory chip is located on the motherboard, a crucial component of a computer's functionality.

This motherboard firmware comes in two main types: BIOS (basic input/output system) and UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface). BIOS ensures the proper functioning of all hardware components. Any information about these components is then stored on a hard disk drive.

UEFI, on the other hand, is a more advanced technology that does everything BIOS does. It transfers information about the hardware directly to the operating system.

The latter also offers additional features such as faster boot times, support for large hard drives, use of an on-screen graphical menu, and additional security. Modern computers use UEFI over BIOS.

Another example is embedded firmware. Coders program this type of software into non-PC devices, like routers, printers, and smartphones. It's optimized for the hardware it's running on. Although end users can't update it, manufacturers may issue updates to patch security flaws.

Characteristics of firmware

Firmware serves as the software that provides low-level control for most hardware today. As an end user, you don't directly interact with a device's firmware, but it works behind the scenes to control the electronic device you use.

Firmware is:

• Embedded. Firmware is software planted in a piece of hardware. You can't remove it once manufacturers install it during the manufacturing process. It typically exists in the non-volatile memory of a device, such as ROM, EPROM, and flash memory.
• Device-specific. This form of software is designed for a specific hardware device, model, or class of devices. Each type of electronic device has its own set of functionalities and hardware components. Firmware provides instructions that precisely match the requirements of a particular device.
• Updatable. As fixes to modern devices are needed, manufacturers can release updates to the firmware. The device manufacturer usually provides these updates. This process often involves replacing and modifying the existing firm software to enhance device performance, add new features, or address security concerns.
• Low-level control. It provides control at a low level of a device's operations. Firmware interacts directly with the hardware component of a device, managing processes like startup procedures, input/output operations, and communication between different hard
• Persistent. Its instructions remain intact even when the device turns off. Non-volatile memory, where the device stores its software, allows it to persistently hold its programming. This characteristic ensures that the device's essential instructions remain preserved during power cycles, contributing to stable and reliable operation.

Three levels of firmware

Each type of technology-specific firmware is unique to its microprocessor - the instructions work for a particular device model and may not work correctly if installed on a different device. Despite this specificity, it is possible to categorize embedded firmware into several broad types based on the level of machine architecture they operate in.

Low-level firmware

Low-level firmware operates on the most fundamental level of a device's hardware. Think of it as the brain stem that controls the basic functions of the hardware components. It's stored in non-volatile memory like ROM and therefore can't be easily modified.

This firm software performs essential tasks like:

• Translating machine code instructions into signals the processor understands
• Bringing the hardware to life by powering up components
• Facilitating communication between different hardware elements like memory
• Starting the process of loading the operating system

High-level firmware

High-level firmware operates at a more sophisticated level compared to low-level firm software. It typically involves more complex instructions related to the overall operation of the device.

It's like the nervous system, coordinating communication between hardware and software. Stored in flash memory chips, it can also be overwritten. This firm software allows updates as well.

The firmware layer is responsible for:

• Managing communication protocols
• Interpreting user inputs
• Coordinating various subsystems within the device
• Oversees various device functionalities like power management, error handling, and user interface interactions

Subsystem firmware

This level operates within a specific subsystem within a device. Subsystem firmware acts like specialized organs with dedicated functions. It often stays in separate chips or memory areas, therefore allowing it independence from the main firmware. It handles tasks such as:

• Managing communication with other devices over networks like WiFi
• Ensuring efficient coordination between these subsystems
• Containing instructions for optimization of subsystem performance

Applications of firmware

Firmware exists in a wide range of gadgets, from computing devices to automotive devices. Some applications of firmware, and devices that use it, include the following.

Computers

Motherboard firmware, often known as the BIOS, initializes the hardware components of a computer during the boot process. Most peripherals, such as mice and keyboards, have basic firmware to manage features like customizable button configurations, LED lighting, and firmware updates.

Smart devices

Smart devices such as smartphones and tablets have firm software that controls the device's operating system. In smart TVs, firmware manages the user interface, connectivity features, and the TV's various functions.

Household appliances

Refrigerators, microwaves, and washing machines feature a type of firmware for control systems and user interfaces as well as for energy management. A fridge might have firm software for its display panel and communication modules.

Networking equipment

In routers and modems, firm software manages network protocols while in network switches. The embedded software controls the switching functionality.

Automotive equipment

Vehicles contain various electronic control units (ECUs) with firmware that governs engine control, transmission, and braking systems. Modern cars have with firm software to control infotainment systems.

Credit cards and banking technology

Credit cards are no exception, even though they seem like a relatively simple technology. Banking or credit cards with chips have firm software that handles secure transactions, authentication, and communication with card readers.

What is a firmware update?

A firmware update is an act of replacing the existing version of firm software with a newer version, particularly to fix security vulnerabilities or iron out bugs. This process typically involves downloading the update file from the manufacturer's website. Then, install it on the device using a specific application. You'll have to flash the memory chip to erase the stored version.

Why are firmware updates important?

When the manufacturer releases an update, it's important to stay on top of things. Firmware updates are important for a number of reasons, including:

• Bug fixes. Often, manufacturers discover bugs, glitches, and other coding errors only after a product has shipped. New updates often fix the issues in the previous version.
• Security. Security is a paramount concern in the digital age. Regular updates often include security patches to address vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit.
• Performance improvements. Over time, manufacturers may identify ways to optimize the performance of a device through firm software updates. These updates can include enhancements to speed, responsiveness, and overall efficiency.
• New features. Updates also provide an avenue for manufacturers to introduce new features to a device, such as support for new hardware or software.

Most experts recommend that you keep your firm software up-to-date to get the most out of your device. However, only download updates from official sources.

Firmware vs. software

Firmware is a type of software, but not all software is firmware. There are differences that set the two technologies apart. Consider the chart below to determine the differences.

Feature	Firmware	Software
User access	No user interface	Designed for user interaction
Operation	Runs in the background, controlling hardware and providing low-level functionality	Runs in the foreground, providing user interface and functionality
Storage	Stored on the device itself, often in non-volatile memory	Stored on the device itself or on external storage
Complexity	Less complex	More complex
Update frequency	Updates are less frequent	Updates occur regularly

Frequently asked questions

What are the vulnerabilities associated with firm software?

Vulnerabilities in this type of software can lead to security breaches, data leaks, and unauthorized access to devices, making it crucial to regularly perform firm software updates to patch known vulnerabilities.

How does firmware protect devices?

Firm software provides security measures such as encryption, authentication, and access control to protect devices from cyber attacks.

What happens if you delete firmware?

Deleting a device's firmware is analogous to wiping its memory, leaving it with no instructions on how to function.