Firmware

Firmware is a type of a specialized software that provides low-level control for a device's specific hardware. It is typically embedded directly into the hardware components of a device, such as microcontrollers, chips, or read-only memory (ROM).

To be concise and easy going - A firmware is a small piece of software that makes hardware work and do what its manufacturer intended it to do. Without the firmware, the device wouldn't work.

How to Obtain Firmware

• From the Vendors Website

• Searching for it

• Reversing the Mobile Application

• Sniffing the Over the Air (OTA) update mechanism

• Dumping it from the device

Characteristics

• Permanent Software: Unlike regular software that can be easily changed or updated, firmware is stored in non-volatile memory (like ROM, EEPROM, or Flash Memory) and remains intact even when the device is powered off.

• Low-Level Operations: Firmware operates at a lower level than most software, interacting directly with hardware to control basic functions and operations.

• Specific to Hardware: It is tailored to the specific hardware of the device, providing the necessary instructions for how the device communicates with other hardware components and software systems.

Examples of Firmware

• BIOS (Basic Input/Output System): Found in computers, it initializes and tests hardware during the booting process before handing control over to the operating system.

• Embedded Systems: Found in various devices like smartphones, cameras, and household appliances, controlling specific functionalities of these devices.

• Network Devices: In routers and modems, firmware manages network protocols and data traffic handling.