A definition of firmware and how firmware updates work

Firmware issoftwarethat’s embedded in a piece ofhardware.

you’ve got the option to think of it simply as “software for hardware.”

However,software is different from firmware, so the two are not interchangeable terms.

Illustration of a DSLR camera with Firmare update on its screen

Lifewire / Adrian Mangel

The same goes for digital camera makers, smartphone manufacturers (like iOS and Android), etc.

you might visit the manufacturer’s website to download these updates.

One example can be seen when downloading the firmware for a wireless router like the Linksys WRT54GL.

But what, exactly, any specific firmware update accomplishes depends on the context and the specific firmware version.

Some updates are applied wirelessly and just seem like a regular software update.

Others may involve copying the firmware to a portable drive and then loading it onto the gadget manually.

Apple devices like iPhones and iPads also occasionally get firmware updates, as do Android phones and tablets.

A very similar procedure is in place for things wearables, TVs, and streaming devices.

This is generally a section with anOpenorBrowsebutton for selecting the firmware you’ve downloaded.

Seehow to upgrade your router’s firmwareif that’s what you’re doing.

We also have a how-to forupdating your camera firmware, which can be similarly complicated.

Or, visit yourhardware manufacturer’s support websitefor more information on firmware updates.

A partial update leaves the firmware corrupted, which can seriously damage how the machine works.

It’s equally critical to avoid applying the wrong update to a machine.

Every equipment is unique and will have a different method of updating or restoring a equipment’s firmware.

It varies by manufacturer, but can often be found underAdvancedorManagement.

Be sure to keep the case near your iPhone.

Motherboard firmware is calledBIOS, which stands for Basic Input Output System.

Next, selectTurn Off Firmware Password> re-enter thepassword> quit the utility > reboot your Mac.