firmware
FERM-wair
/ˈfɜːrm.wɛər/
Low-level software stored permanently in non-volatile memory that directly controls hardware circuitry and provides operational control.
Sits midway between hardware circuits and high-level user apps; it cannot be erased easily by standard user actions.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1967 by computer scientist Ascher Opler in a Datamation article. He invented the term to describe computer program code that occupied read-only memory, sitting logically halfway between changeable software and rigid hardware.
Word relationships
- microcode: Microcode consists of low-level instructions executed directly by CPU pipelines, while firmware covers flash-stored control code overall.
- BIOS: BIOS is a specific legacy motherboard firmware standard for computer bootup, whereas firmware is a general term across all devices.
- software: High-level, easily modified applications running on top of the operating system.
Commonly confused with
- hardware: Hardware refers to physical silicon chips and glass, whereas firmware is the permanent embedded code running inside those chips.
Word family
- firmwares (noun): Plural form referring to multiple firmware binary images.
Collocations
- firmware update
- flash firmware
- firmware version
- corrupted firmware
- embedded firmware
Example sentences
- "Firmware updates are essential for protecting embedded hardware systems against security vulnerabilities." System Security
- "If the installation of the new firmware fails halfway through, the phone may become unbootable." Hardware Maintenance
Memory hook
FIRM + SOFTWARE: software that is set FIRMLY into the physical hardware chip. Permanent low-level code controlling physical chips.
When not to use
Do not call downloadable user applications like games or social media apps 'firmware'.
Fun facts
- Interrupting power while updating a device's firmware can 'brick' the hardware, rendering it completely unresponsive.
Related words
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