Platform-Independent Computer System Migration via Executable Configuration Packages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer system migration and replication processes are limited by requiring identical source and destination systems, manual configuration, and are prone to interruptions from networking disconnects, lacking automation and validation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that determines the structure of a computer system, generates instructions for migration or replication, and packages them in an executable package, including an agent and task list, to facilitate platform-independent, automated migration or replication, capable of restarting on network disconnects and validating the migrated system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration is used for migration/replication, then compatibility with different platforms is improved, but automation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the source system's configuration state and transfers it to the destination system. The configuration data is captured from the source system and replicated on the destination system, enabling automated migration while maintaining platform compatibility through standardized configuration formats.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms configuration parameters into a standardized format that can be automatically processed. By converting system configuration into structured data with defined parameters, the system enables automated migration across different platforms while maintaining adaptability through parameter mapping and transformation.
2Reliability
If privileged access is required for destination system, then control and security are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration management system that handles the migration process. This intermediary layer manages the transfer of configuration data between source and destination systems, maintaining security through controlled access while simplifying operations by abstracting the complex migration steps behind a standardized interface.
3Reliability
If migration process can be restarted on network disconnects, then reliability is improved, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by capturing and storing the configuration state before migration begins. This pre-captured configuration data serves as a checkpoint that can be reused if the migration process is interrupted, allowing the process to be restarted without losing progress while managing complexity through state persistence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the migration process status and provide information about completion state. This feedback enables the system to detect interruptions and determine whether the process can be safely restarted, improving reliability while managing complexity through structured process monitoring and state tracking.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for migrating and/or replicating computer systems are disclosed. Computer systems may be migrated and/or replicated from physical systems or virtual systems to physical or virtual systems. Migrating/replicating computer systems comprises determining the structure of the source computer system, generating instructions for migrating/replicating the structure of the computer system, and packaging the instructions in an executable package. The instructions may be formatted as a template, such as an OVF template, and be packaged with an executable agent and task list. The executable agent may be received and executed by a destination computer system. Executing the executable package may cause the instructions to be executed, as well as the optional agent, there configuring the destination computer system, possibly copying data present on the source computer system, and possibly rebooting the destination computer system.