Firmware security refers to the protection of low-level software embedded in hardware devices, such as IoT devices, industrial control systems (ICS), network appliances, and servers. Firmware operates beneath the operating system, managing hardware functionality and serving as a crucial layer between software and physical components.
Because firmware is often overlooked in traditional security measures, it has become a prime target for attackers. Threat actors exploit unpatched vulnerabilities, supply chain tampering, and backdoors in firmware to establish persistence, evade detection, and execute malicious code at the hardware level.
Firmware is the foundation of any device, but it lacks the same level of visibility and protection as application or operating system security. The rise of nation-state cyber threats and supply chain attacks has made firmware a critical attack surface. Without proper firmware security, organizations risk:
Undetectable persistent threats – Malware at the firmware level can survive reboots, OS reinstalls, and traditional endpoint security solutions.
Compromised supply chains – Attackers have inserted backdoors into firmware during manufacturing or software updates.
Delayed patching and updates – Many devices lack automated firmware patching, leaving them vulnerable to known exploits.
Regulatory non-compliance – Standards like NIST 800-193 and
Executive Order 14028 mandate firmware integrity verification.
Traditional endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools don’t analyze firmware, leaving organizations blind to threats lurking at the hardware level.
NetRise provides comprehensive firmware security by:
Performing deep firmware analysis – Unpacking, decompiling, and scanning firmware images for hidden vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and embedded malware.
Detecting unauthorized modifications – Verifying firmware integrity and identifying supply chain tampering before deployment.
Providing continuous visibility – Maintaining an up-to-date inventory of all firmware running across IT, OT, and IoT environments.
Correlating firmware risks with real-world threat intelligence – Flagging firmware components linked to past security incidents or adversarial contributors.
With NetRise, organizations don’t just react to firmware threats—they proactively eliminate them, ensuring the integrity, security, and resilience of their hardware infrastructure.