Firmware: A specialized form of software that provides low-level control for a device’s specific hardware. Firmware can be found in embedded systems such as traffic lights, consumer appliances, wireless routers, and digital watches. It can also provide essential instructions for how a device communicates with other computer hardware. Unlike typical software, firmware is usually designed for a specific hardware device and is stored on non-volatile memory chips, making it persistent through reboots and power off/on cycles. Firmware updates can fix bugs, add features, and patch security vulnerabilities.