What is firmware primarily used for in a computer system?

Firmware is primarily used as permanently stored software embedded within a hardware component, such as a ROM chip or similar non-volatile memory. This software is crucial for the basic operation and control of computer hardware, as it provides low-level control for the device's specific functions. Unlike regular software that can be easily installed or updated from external sources, firmware is designed to remain intact and operational without requiring constant interaction from users or systems, defining the hardware's behavior and capabilities.

In contrast to temporary storage, firmware is not ephemeral; it persists through power cycles and remains fixed within the device unless updated or replaced. Other options, such as external software applications or network configuration support, do not describe firmware's primary role, as they relate to more dynamic and user-driven software functionalities rather than the foundational, integral code that governs hardware operations.