Hardware vs. Firmware: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Hardware is the physical components of a device, while Firmware is the specialized software that controls hardware.
Key Differences
Hardware refers to the physical elements of a computer or electronic system, like the motherboard, CPU, or RAM. These tangible components are what you can touch and see. On the other hand, Firmware is a specific class of computer software that provides the low-level control for a device's specific hardware.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 11, 2023
Hardware components are the building blocks of any electronic device, each with a specific function, like processing data or storing information. Firmware, however, is embedded into hardware to act as the intermediary, instructing the hardware on how to operate correctly and interact with other devices.
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Nov 11, 2023
The durability of hardware is typically finite, with physical wear and tear affecting its lifespan. Firmware doesn’t degrade over time but can become outdated as new technologies emerge, requiring updates to maintain compatibility and security.
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Nov 11, 2023
Hardware improvements often require physical replacements or upgrades, such as installing more RAM. Firmware updates can usually be completed through software downloads, which adjust the existing code to enhance performance or fix bugs.
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Nov 11, 2023
In summary, hardware makes up the device's body, and firmware is the near-invisible nervous system that gives the hardware its instructions, making sure the components work together seamlessly and efficiently.
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Nov 11, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Nature
Physical components of devices.
Embedded software within the hardware.
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Function
Performs core device operations.
Controls and manages hardware functions.
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Upgradability
Often requires physical replacement.
Can be updated with software changes.
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Durability
Subject to wear and tear.
Does not degrade physically, but can become outdated.
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Dependency
Can operate independently.
Dependent on hardware to have a function.
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Nov 11, 2023
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Hardware and Firmware Definitions
Hardware
Hardware is the collection of physical parts of a computer system.
He upgraded the computer's hardware with a new graphics card.
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Firmware
Firmware is integrated, embedded software that controls hardware devices.
The router's performance improved after a firmware update.
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Nov 10, 2023
Hardware
Hardware is the tangible components that make up a computer or electronic system.
After spilling coffee on her laptop, she was concerned about the hardware damage.
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Firmware
Firmware provides the necessary instructions for how the device communicates with other computer hardware.
The new camera wouldn’t work until the firmware was updated.
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Hardware
It includes devices such as the processor, hard drives, and memory modules.
The new computer's hardware features an advanced processor and large memory capacity.
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Firmware
It is often stored in the read-only memory of a hardware device.
The firmware in the read-only memory ensures the washing machine runs the correct cycles.
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Hardware
Hardware can be external or internal devices connected to the computer system.
He connected several hardware peripherals like a printer and scanner to his computer.
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Firmware
Firmware can be updated to improve functionality or fix bugs.
They released new firmware to fix the security issues discovered in the smart lock.
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Nov 10, 2023
Firmware
It is programmed to give permanent instructions to communicate with other hardware.
The smart thermostat’s firmware helps it learn your temperature preferences.
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Nov 10, 2023
Hardware
(Computers) A computer and the associated physical equipment directly involved in the performance of data-processing or communications functions.
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Nov 09, 2023
Hardware
Machines and other physical equipment directly involved in performing an industrial, technological, or military function.
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Firmware
(computing) 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.
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Hardware
Fixtures, equipment, tools and devices used for general-purpose construction and repair of a structure or object. Also such equipment as sold as stock by a store of the same name, e.g. hardware store.
He needed a hammer, nails, screws, nuts, bolts and other assorted hardware, so he went to the hardware store.
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Nov 09, 2023
Firmware
(computer science) coded instructions that are stored permanently in read-only memory
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Hardware
(computing) The part of a computer that is fixed and cannot be altered without replacement or physical modification; motherboard, expansion cards, etc. Compare software.
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Hardware
Metal implements.
The designers have put their logo on the hardware of this bag here.
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Hardware
Ware made of metal, as cutlery, kitchen utensils, and the like; ironmongery.
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Hardware
Any of the physical objects used in carrying out an activity, in contrast to the knowledge, skill, or theory required to perform the activity; mostly used collectively.
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Hardware
The sum of all the physical objects, such as the electrical, mechanical, and electronic devices which comprise a computer system; as, the typical PC hardware suite consists of a mainboard and a number of peripherals such as hard drives and speakers, connected by adapter cards, but the input and output from users occurs mostly through the keyboard and monitor; contrasted with software, the programs executed by the computer.
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Hardware
The weapons, transport, and other physical objects used in conducting a war.
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Hardware
Weapons, especially handguns, carried on the person; as, check your hardware at the door before entering.
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Hardware
(computer science) the mechanical, magnetic, electronic, and electrical components making up a computer system
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Hardware
It encompasses all the physical devices in a computer network.
The IT technician checked the server room to inspect the network hardware.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is hardware the same as software?
No, hardware is the physical device, while software is the program that runs on the hardware.
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How often is firmware updated?
Firmware updates depend on the device and manufacturer, ranging from frequently to rarely.
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What does firmware do?
Firmware provides the low-level control for the device’s hardware, dictating its function.
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Can I upgrade hardware by myself?
Some hardware upgrades can be done by users, like adding RAM, while others may require professionals.
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What is hardware in a computer system?
Hardware in a computer system refers to the physical components like the motherboard, CPU, and RAM.
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Nov 11, 2023
Can updating firmware make hardware run faster?
Firmware updates can improve efficiency but not necessarily increase the hardware's speed.
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Are hardware upgrades expensive?
The cost of hardware upgrades varies depending on the component and device.
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Can firmware be updated?
Yes, firmware can be updated to improve performance or address issues.
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What happens if firmware becomes outdated?
Outdated firmware can lead to compatibility issues or security vulnerabilities.
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Is it possible to have hardware without firmware?
Simple hardware devices may operate without firmware, but complex ones require it for functionality.
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Why is firmware considered software?
Firmware is a type of software programmed into hardware to control it.
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What can cause hardware failure?
Hardware failure can be caused by physical damage, electrical issues, or manufacturing defects.
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Do all hardware devices have firmware?
Most complex electronic hardware devices have firmware, but simple devices may not.
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How do I check my device's firmware version?
Firmware version can usually be found in the device's settings or system information.
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Can firmware affect the performance of hardware?
Yes, firmware can optimize or degrade the performance of the hardware it controls.
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What's the difference between firmware and drivers?
Firmware is embedded in the device, while drivers are installed on the operating system to communicate with the hardware.
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Does replacing hardware affect data?
Replacing storage hardware like hard drives can affect data unless it is backed up.
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Is firmware specific to each hardware device?
Yes, firmware is specifically designed for the hardware it controls.
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Nov 11, 2023
Does new hardware come with firmware already installed?
Yes, new hardware typically comes with firmware pre-installed.
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Nov 11, 2023
Can I downgrade firmware?
Some devices allow firmware downgrading, but it's not recommended due to potential security risks.
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Nov 11, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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