Firmware is a piece of software embedded in a specific piece of hardware. Firmware can be said as the updated or the modified version of the software. Its major purpose is to direct the hardware component to complete its work.
Video cards, cameras, stoves, refrigerators, and other equipment use the firmware. These integrated programs assist these devices in operating when users issue commands. As a result, firmware can be utilized in electronic and computer devices. Both main and secondary memory are controlled by firmware. It sends orders to RAM to obtain operating system codes, and another command copies the operating system code from ROM to RAM.
Types of firmware
The firmware is of different types depending on the device's hardware. On computer motherboards, firmware is provided (also called BIOS or UEFI). Firmware isn't limited to computer-based devices. Every gadget that can perform useful tasks, such as a television, washing machine, and even automobiles, contains firmware.
The difference between firmware and operating systems in tabular form :
Firmware | Operating System | |
Meaning | Firmware is a piece of software that is embedded in a specific piece of hardware. They are the updated or the modified version of the software. | An operating system (OS) is a software that serves as a medium between computer hardware and the user. it is a collection of programs that connects the end-user to the computer's hardware |
Location | It is stored in non-volatile memory(ROM). | It is stored on a hard disk. |
Files Size | Generally, the firmware files are small | Mainly, the operating system carries vast files full of essential coding sets, which leads to a bigger size than firmware. |
Languages | It is mainly written in C or assembly language. | It uses the C++ and other programming language such as Python programming languages. |
Purpose | The firmware's purpose is to manage specific hardware components. As a result, these are codes that are only used to operate one device. | The operating system is a multi-purpose application that manages the computer's various components. All hardware components are basically under its control. |
Function | The firmware is designed to perform low-level tasks. For example, telling the keyboard to type a specific key or function in response to the user's order. | It handles high-level activities such as providing the end-user with a graphical user interface, multitasking, and so on. |
Portability | It is built into the hardware and cannot be altered. | It is a computer programme that the user can install and modify. |
Examples | Examples of devices that contain firmware are video cards, routers, ovens,keyboards, fridges, washing machines,etc | Windows, Apple iOS, Mac, Android, Linux, and Ubuntu are examples of operating systems |
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