firmware
n. uncountablen. special software that is built into a piece of hardware to help it run. It is more permanent than a normal app and tells the device how to talk to other hardware.
n. permanent software programmed into a read-only memory that provides low-level control for a device's specific hardware. It serves as the intermediary between the physical components and the higher-level operating system.
The router needs a firmware update to fix the connection issues.
Manufacturers often release firmware updates to patch security vulnerabilities or improve the performance of smart home devices.
Unlike standard software applications that reside on a hard drive, firmware is typically stored on non-volatile memory chips directly integrated into the motherboard or peripheral hardware.
From firm + -ware, coined in an article in 1967 as an intermediary term between hardware and software.
Typically treated as uncountable; when referring to different versions or types, 'firmware updates' or 'types of firmware' is preferred over the plural form.