Firmware
Firmware is a specialized type of software that provides low-level control for a device's specific hardware. It is typically stored in non-volatile memory such as ROM, flash memory, or EEPROM, and acts as an intermediary between the hardware and higher-level software like operating systems or applications. Firmware initializes and manages hardware components, handles basic input/output operations, and ensures the device functions correctly at startup and during operation.
Developers should learn firmware when working on embedded systems, IoT devices, consumer electronics, or any hardware that requires direct hardware control and reliability. It is essential for tasks like device drivers, bootloaders, BIOS/UEFI systems, and microcontroller programming, where low-level access, real-time performance, and stability are critical. Understanding firmware helps in debugging hardware issues, optimizing performance, and ensuring secure and efficient device operation.