What is firmware ?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is it ?

[hendrix]

Firmware is programming that is inserted into programmable read-only memory (programmable ROM), thus becoming a permanent part of a computing device. Firmware is created and tested like software (using microcode simulation). When ready, it can be distributed like other software and, using a special user interface, installed in the programmable read-only memory by the user. Firmware is sometimes distributed for printers, modems, and other computer devices.

hendrix

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is its point to DVD Writers ?
I saw a lot of things about firmware for Writers.
Also I saw it a lot in warez sites.
What does this do ?

[hendrix]

you can change the firmware of a DVD writer to make it region free
or update it so it will have better burning support.

hendrix