Something in between hardware and software. Like software, it is created from source code, but it is closely tied to the hardware it runs on.
"The printer's firmware was updated to fix a bug that caused paper jams when loading thick cardstock."
In plain English: Firmware is special software built directly into your device's hardware to make it work properly.
"The technician updated the firmware to fix the printer's connectivity issues."
Usage: Firmware consists of low-level instructions stored directly on a device's chip that control its basic operations. Unlike general application software, this specialized program cannot be easily changed by users and often requires professional tools for updates or repairs.
The word firmware was created in a 1967 article by combining firm with -ware. It was originally coined to describe code that sits physically on a chip, serving as a middle ground between hardware and software.