Embedded software and firmware development are often used as synonyms, although there are some major differences between them. The former is oriented around software that performs a specific function (often in real-time) and can be modified frequently; on the other hand, firmware operates on a lower control level and is stored in non-volatile memory—it remains intact even without power. Do you want to learn more? Then keep reading!

Embedded Software vs. Firmware Development: Definitions

To begin with, we need to define both embedded software and firmware, as this will be the basis for many differences. What are they?

Embedded Software

Embedded software is a type of computer program written to control embedded systems. It is integrated into hardware and aims to enable the device to perform a specific function. Moreover, it is optimized for resource constraints, which often occur in embedded devices.

Firmware

Firmware operates on a much lower control level than embedded software. The code provides control over specific hardware and links the operating system with the hardware. It isn’t meant to be updated frequently and provides only basic instructions.

What Is the Difference Between Embedded Software and Firmware Development?

Both embedded software and firmware development services differ in multiple aspects. What are they? Take a look at our analysis below.

Languages Used

The first basic difference between embedded software and firmware development is the language the developers use. In the former, you can see a plethora of coding languages implemented based on the preferences and specifics of the project. In the latter, you will most likely see C++ or C.

Developers’ Skills

While embedded software is more abstract, its development usually requires less general expertise and knowledge vs. firmware development. Why is it so?

A firmware developer needs to be able to carry out the project end-to-end. They don’t just code—they also debug the code (using special tools for low-level control firmware) and ensure that it’s compatible with the hardware (meaning that they need to know the physical components used). This adds a visible layer of complexity to their role.

Naturally, we do not claim that software development is easy or does not require any skill; however, a software developer is more specialized, while a firmware engineer needs to be a man of many parts. Both have their own challenges and hardships—after all, the difficulty level depends on the complexity of the software developed.

Communication

Both software development and firmware development require extensive communication with the stakeholders; there is no difference here. Naturally, more complex software projects might require more extensive communication, but it is due to the scale rather than the type of services.

Development Process

The whole development process also differs between firmware and embedded software. For the former, it is more straightforward, as it is focused on hardware-specific tasks. Additionally, apart from the coding, it involves:

  • Extensive code debugging using specialized tools.
  • Optimizing the code for maximal performance.

Since firmware is meant to be updated rarely, it needs to be as close to perfection as possible when uploaded into the non-volatile memory. Therefore, a lot of focus is put on the debugging stage.

The process is slightly more complex for software and depends on the goals of the developer and the stakeholders. The cycle usually involves multiple steps, such as:

  • Requirements analysis.
  • Architecture design.
  • Coding.
  • Testing.
  • Integration with hardware.
  • Post-deployment maintenance.

What is the main difference between embedded software and firmware development in this case? The former is monitored and updated after being deployed, which happens only if critical errors occur for the latter.

Costs

What about the costs of embedded software development vs. firmware development? Here it gets more tricky.

Both firmware and software developers are among the highest-paid jobs in IT. Nevertheless, the specific salaries/expenses (if you outsource the services) depend on the technologies they use and (once again) the complexity of the projects they work on.

Need Embedded Software or Firmware Development Services? Choose Conclusive!

If you are looking for embedded software, firmware development, or both services, we are happy to help you at Conclusive. We are a team of engineers specialized in embedded system development, and we can prepare such devices end-to-end. By working with us, you can harvest the following benefits:

  • Our extensive experience and know-how in the field of embedded systems.
  • Our long list of technologies we work with.
  • Our client-centric approach; it involves communicating with you via the most suitable channel, keeping you up to date about your projects, and consulting our decisions to design systems that fulfill your business goals.
  • A flexible payment plan adjusted to your needs.

What are you waiting for?! Let’s talk about your project!

The Takeaway

Embedded software development and firmware development have numerous differences. The coding languages used for the developer’s skill set and the whole process are just a few examples of that. However, both firmware and software development share one crucial trait: they are necessary to develop a functional embedded system!


You might also read: Where to Find Good Firmware Development Services?