Question: What is firmware and where can I obtain it from? Answer: Firmware is programming that is inserted into programmable read-only memory chip on the CDRW drive which become a permanent part of a device. Firmware is created and tested like software. When ready, it is distributed like other software and, using a special user interface, installed in the programmable read-only memory by the user. Firmware can only be obtained from the drive manufacturer. Most drive manufactures post firmware updates on their websites.