Firmware

the abstraction layer between the physical chips and the software. Firmware allows the operating system to make generic calls to the hardware (e.g., open microphone, allowing for an audio recording or phone call, which the firmware interprets and then sends the correct instructions to the hardware to turn on the microphone). In other words, the firmware acts as the translator between hardware and software (most of the times, an operating system); it receives the software instructions and further passes them on to the hardware components.

Long Read

Windows 11 system crash due to security update from CrowdStrike affected bus stops

CrowdStrike: What the 2024 outage reveals about security

The CrowdStrike incident earlier this year had major implications for governments and businesses across the world. Here, we look at what it tells us about the security and robustness of the modern internet.

Report

Close-up of a store shelf that shows electronics like a laptop, smartphone and smart watches bearing software expiry dates

We looked into the software support practices for 5 of the most popular smart devices (and the results may disappoint you)

As EU policymakers are about to adopt new laws to empower consumers and increase cyber-resilience, PI's research shows that the existing practices of device manufacturers around software and security updates fail to meet the expectations of the vast majority of consumers.