Firmware vs Software | Simple Guide to Key Differences

Published: 10 Jun 2025

Firmware vs Software

Many devices we use daily—like smartphones, routers, and TVs—run on both firmware and software, but they aren’t the same thing. Ever wondered why your phone needs two kinds of updates, and which one controls your hardware? It’s confusing when your device acts up and you don’t know whether to update the firmware or reinstall the software. Once, my printer just froze—it needed a firmware update, not a new app. Let’s break it down and finally clear up the mystery of firmware vs software in the simplest way possible.

Table of Content

What is Software?

Software is a set of digital instructions that tells a computer or device how to work. It controls how the hardware behaves and allows users to perform tasks like browsing the internet, editing documents, or playing games. Software is not something you can touch—it works behind the scenes to make things happen. Example: The Google Chrome browser is software that lets you surf the web.

What is Firmware?

Firmware is a special type of software built into a device’s hardware. It controls how the hardware works and helps it perform basic functions. Unlike regular software, you don’t usually see or interact with firmware. It runs in the background and is stored permanently in the device. Example: The firmware in a TV remote tells the buttons what to do when you press them.

Key Differences Between Firmware and Software

Firmware	Software
Built-in code that controls hardware	Programs/apps that help users do tasks
Stored inside hardware (non-removable)	Stored on hard drives or app stores
Rarely updated	Frequently updated
Runs in the background, with no user input	A user interacts directly (e.g., clicking apps)
Manages hardware operations	Performs tasks for users
Very limited, fixed purpose	Very flexible, can be added/removed easily
Code inside a TV remote	Microsoft Word, Google Chrome, mobile games

Benefits of firmware and software

Benefits of Firmware

Makes Hardware Work

It helps hardware devices run smoothly and perform basic functions.

Starts the Device

Firmware boots up the device before any other software runs.

Reliable and Stable

It doesn’t change often, so it’s steady and dependable.

Needs No User Input

Works silently in the background without needing user action.

Low Power Use

Because it’s simple and direct, it uses very little power or memory.

Example: A digital camera uses firmware to power on, focus the lens, and save photos.

Benefits of Software

Helps You Do Tasks

The software lets you write, browse, play games, and more.

Easy to Update

You can fix bugs or add features with quick updates.

User-Friendly

Most software is made for you to interact with—menus, buttons, and tools.

Flexible and Customizable

You can install, remove, or replace software based on your needs.

Drives Innovation

New apps and tools keep improving how we use devices.

Example: You use software like WhatsApp to chat or Excel to manage data.

How Firmware Works

Starts the Device

When you power on a device, the firmware is the first thing that runs.
It performs a self-check to make sure all the hardware parts (like the screen, buttons, and sensors) are ready.

Controls Hardware Functions

After the self-check, firmware takes charge of controlling the basic functions of the device’s hardware.
For example, it tells the screen how to display information or the motor how to spin.

Works in the Background

Firmware operates silently in the background and doesn’t need user input.
It doesn’t change often, so you won’t see it unless something goes wrong.

Low-Level Operations

It directly interacts with the hardware and doesn’t rely on an operating system.
It helps hardware perform basic tasks like starting up, communicating with other parts, or shutting down.

Example: In a printer, the firmware tells the printer how to load paper, print a page, and turn off when it’s done.

How Software Works

Installed on a Device

You install software on a device like a phone, tablet, or computer.
It’s stored in memory (like a hard drive or SSD) and opens when you click or tap its icon.

Takes Your Input

You give the software instructions—like typing text, clicking buttons, or swiping the screen.
The software takes your input and decides what action to perform.

Processes the Task

The software uses the device’s processor (CPU) to think and solve problems.
It follows built-in instructions (called code) to complete your task.

Gives Output

After processing, the software shows a result.
This could be a message, a photo, a document, or a game screen—depending on what you’re doing.

Works with Hardware

Software can’t work alone—it needs hardware like the screen, keyboard, and storage.
It sends and receives signals from the hardware to get the job done.

Real-Life Example

You tap a song (input),
The software processes it and tells the hardware (like speakers) to play it (output).

Firmware and Software Use Cases

Firmware Use Cases

Turns on your smartphone
Runs your TV’s remote control
Controls your washing machine’s functions
Starts your printer and controls printing
Powers your Wi-Fi router
Manages camera buttons and settings

Software Use Cases

Browses websites using Chrome or Firefox
Edits photos with apps like Snapseed
Plays music or videos
Helps you write in Word or Google Docs
Sends messages through WhatsApp or Messenger
Play games on your phone or PC

Conclusion About Firmware v Software

We’ve covered firmware and software in detail. I recommend that you always keep your firmware updated when needed and use trusted software to stay safe and productive. If you’re someone who uses tech daily, understanding this difference will really help you troubleshoot and use your devices better. Don’t stop here—keep learning, explore your device settings, and feel free to ask questions or drop your thoughts in the comments below!

FAQS Firmware and Software

What is the difference between firmware and software?

Firmware is a small program that helps hardware work. It stays in the device and doesn’t change often. Software is what you use daily, like apps or games, and it runs on top of the hardware.

What is an example of software and firmware?

A good software example is WhatsApp or Microsoft Word. A firmware example is what runs inside your TV remote or Wi-Fi router to control basic tasks.

Is firmware a ROM or RAM?

Firmware is usually stored in ROM (Read-Only Memory). This means it stays even when the power is off. It’s not like RAM, which clears when the device shuts down.

Is BIOS firmware or software?

BIOS is firmware. It starts your computer and checks the hardware before the operating system loads. You can’t use it like regular software.

Is CPU hardware, software, or firmware?

The CPU is hardware. It’s the brain of your computer that runs all tasks. It works with both firmware and software to get things done.

Is UEFI a software or firmware?

UEFI is firmware. It’s a modern version of BIOS and helps your computer start and load the operating system. It offers more features than old BIOS systems.

Is Windows 10 a software or firmware?

Windows 10 is software. It’s an operating system that helps you use your computer and run programs like browsers and games.

Which is better, BIOS or UEFI?

UEFI is better than BIOS because it’s faster, more secure, and supports modern hardware. Most new computers use UEFI. BIOS is older and has fewer features.

What is a bootloader?

A bootloader is a small program that loads the operating system when your device starts. It runs after the firmware checks the hardware. Without it, your system wouldn’t know how to start.