FW
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Software
| Stands for | Firmware |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
FW stands for Firmware, a software abbreviation.
Low-level software built into hardware such as routers, SSDs, keyboards, cameras and motherboards that controls the device's basic functions. Updating it can fix bugs, close security holes or add features.
Example: Update the router FW to version 1.2.8 to patch the remote-login vulnerability.
Usage notes
Firmware sits between hardware and higher-level software and is usually stored in flash memory. Installing a new version is called flashing, and a power cut mid-update can "brick" the device. Device labels and download pages often print it as "FW: 1.0.3". In email, FW or Fwd marks a forwarded message.
Related abbreviations
More software abbreviations
- ESR – Extended Support Release
- ESU – Extended Security Updates
- EULA – End-user license agreement
- FLOSS – Free/libre and open-source software
- FOSS – Free and open-source software
- FSF – Free Software Foundation
- GA – General availability
- GIMP – GNU Image Manipulation Program
- GM – Golden master
- GMS – Google Mobile Services
- GNOME – GNU Network Object Model Environment
- GNU – GNU's Not Unix