Firmware Security
Firmware security is the practice of protecting the low-level software that initializes and controls hardware components in computing devices, such as BIOS/UEFI in PCs, bootloaders in embedded systems, or firmware in IoT devices. It involves implementing measures to prevent unauthorized access, tampering, or exploitation of firmware, which is critical because firmware runs at a privileged level and can compromise the entire system if breached. This includes techniques like secure boot, firmware updates, and hardware-based security features.
Developers should learn firmware security when working on embedded systems, IoT devices, or any hardware-dependent applications to ensure device integrity and prevent attacks like rootkits or supply chain compromises. It is essential in industries like automotive, healthcare, and industrial control systems where firmware vulnerabilities can lead to safety risks or data breaches. Understanding firmware security helps in designing secure boot processes, implementing trusted platform modules (TPM), and managing firmware updates securely.