Firmware vs Hardware

Firmware and Hardware refers to the standard terms in regards to technology particularly in the logistics and manufacturing industry. Few individuals understand the linkage between the two in regards to IoT. They are sometimes used interchangeably.

Firmware is a type of software that is permanently installed on an electronic device or computer. Changes in firmware take place through installation or administrative updates. The unique nature of firmware is that it is installed on a hardware device during the manufacturing process.

Examples of the firmware include 

• Code inside a printer 
• The print processor on a computer 
• Software embedded in a router 

Firmware is essential particularly in increasing computing speeds or in other instances enhancing hardware performance. In most instances, manufacturers sell hardware together with the firmware thus it may not be necessary to purchase it separately. However, in certain instances, a manufacturer may recommend an update or there might be a need to replace firmware in areas where it has immense security vulnerabilities. 

It is less definite to locate the firmware within a device. After software installation the computer has the capacity to read the code and data, a process that is instrumental in communicating with the hardware. In most instances, firmware is mostly found in read-only memory (ROM). The read-only flash memory refers to memory used that can erase when they no longer use it. Firmware acts as a control allowing software to communicate with hardware in order to complete commands