In addition to the functions and features that we have in sight, there are other software elements that are somewhat more hidden in Windows that are fundamental. However, we interact with them a little less and for some users they are strangers. A clear example of all this we find it with what are known as Firmware and the drivers that are part of the operating system.
We are talking about software elements without which the system itself could not function correctly, as well as many of the installed applications or components. They usually work in the background and we are barely aware of their existence, but they are there. In this specific case we want to focus on the two components mentioned above, the Firmware and the drivers available in Windows. For those who do not know, it must be taken into account that they are two independent elements and different from each other.
It is precisely for all this that we are going to talk about the differences between the two below so that they do not lead to confusion in the future. Despite their importance, each of these components has an independent task and mode of operation related to the hardware of our equipment.
What is firmware and drivers in Windows
To begin with, we will tell you that, when we talk about Firmware, we are referring to a piece of software in charge of managing the operating mode of any hardware. This means that these small low-level elements ensure the basic correct functioning of any electronic device that we use.
Obviously this is something that can be extrapolated to all the components that are part of or connect to our Windows PC. In addition, these elements can be updated to solve some type of error or improve their functionality. In this case, we generally have to carry out the updates ourselves manually. In fact, these update movements are sometimes not easy at all, depending on the product we are referring to.
On the other hand, we find controllers or drivers, software elements that basically make the hardware understandable with the operating system. These components could be considered as of a higher level, but of enormous importance nonetheless.
Differences between both software elements in the system
We have already told you before that these are two independent and different elements. The first thing we should know in this regard is that while the aforementioned Firmware is installed on the hardware itself, the drivers are found in the operating system. This means that, for example, if we format the Windows computer, we lose the drivers, but not the firmware of the devices.
It is also interesting to know that, in this second case, that of the drivers, here its update is quite simple in the operating system. In fact, this is a task that, either manually or automatically, is carried out on a regular basis. Also, while the Firmware is provided and implemented by the manufacturer of the product, in the case of the drivers this is not essential.
We must bear in mind that we find generic drivers that are part of the operating system itself and that we can use as well. With everything and with it in both cases we talk about essential software to be able to get the most out of all the hardware that is part of our team. That is precisely why we sometimes confuse them.
