In computer terminology, programs that are permanently stored in ROM chips and provide low level control for hardware devices are collectively called what?

Introduction / Context:
This question revisits the important concept of firmware, which sits between hardware and software in computer systems. Many devices, including motherboards, routers, printers and embedded systems, contain small programs stored in non volatile memory. These programs control basic hardware functions and start up procedures and are distinct from application software installed by the user.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question focuses on programs stored in ROM.
• These programs are permanent and provide low level control.
• Options include firmware, software, hardware, none of the above and shareware.
• We assume standard definitions used in computer fundamentals.

Concept / Approach:
Firmware refers to the software that is stored in read only memory ROM or similar non volatile chips on a device. It is often programmed by the manufacturer and is not intended to be frequently changed by end users, although updates may occasionally be installed. Firmware controls hardware operations at a basic level, such as booting a computer or managing a router. While firmware is a form of software, the term software alone is too broad for this specific question. Hardware refers to physical components, not the code stored on them, and shareware describes a licensing model, not ROM based programs.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that ROM, or Read Only Memory, is used to store code that must be available when a device powers on. Step 2: The programs stored there include system initialisation routines and low level control logic. Step 3: The collective term for these ROM based control programs is firmware. Step 4: Option a, Firmware, directly names this concept. Step 5: Option b, Software, is a generic term that includes all kinds of programs, but the question asks for a more precise label tied to ROM. Step 6: Option c, Hardware, denotes the physical devices, not the instructions stored in memory. Step 7: Option e, Shareware, refers to software distributed on a trial or share basis and is unrelated to ROM storage. Step 8: Therefore, firmware is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Technical documentation for devices often instructs users to update the firmware of a router, BIOS or printer. These instructions involve writing new code into non volatile memory chips on the device. The same documents distinguish firmware updates from installing application software on a computer. This consistent usage shows that programs stored in ROM are referred to as firmware, not simply software or hardware.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Labeling the ROM programs only as software would ignore the specific and widely accepted term firmware, which conveys that the software is closely tied to hardware and stored in a non volatile form. Hardware is the physical medium that holds ROM chips but not the code itself. Shareware deals with distribution terms such as free trials but says nothing about where or how the code is stored. None of the above would be incorrect, because firmware is a standard answer recognised in computer fundamentals courses.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may think firmware is simply a stylish marketing term for software. To avoid this confusion, remember that firmware is specifically the code embedded in devices, often running before any operating system loads. It bridges the gap between raw hardware and higher level software. Associating firmware with BIOS chips, router control programs and device embedded code will help fix its meaning in memory.

Final Answer:
Programs permanently stored in ROM chips are called firmware.