Firmware is a type of software that is embedded in hardware and difficult to change without special access or knowledge. Firmware usually exists in specialized devices like microwave ovens, televisions and audio systems.
Firmware is often thought of as the middle ground between hardware and software. Functionality in hardware is permanent; a piece of hardware cannot be modified to perform any other task. Functionality in software is very flexible and can be changed. Firmware, on the other hand, is semi-permanent. Because firmware is embedded in the hardware device, the user cannot change it without special equipment. Typically, only the manufacturer of the device has the expertise to change or upgrade the firmware on a device.
For manufacturers, creating firmware is challenging because, unlike software, it provides little opportunity to fix problems. The cost to recall devices to upgrade the firmware can be very expensive, so it is imperative that the firmware be developed correctly the first time. Firmware, however, is typically faster and more efficient than software that runs on computers.
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