Management Device Configuration File Backup and Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current firmware management systems fail to effectively backup and recover configuration files, leading to corruption issues that can prevent application and service startups, as both backup and configuration files can be corrupted, and existing recovery methods are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for a management device that includes a processor and non-volatile memory to perform automatic and verified backups of configuration files, with automatic unverified backups at predetermined intervals and recovery options using backup configuration files or default files, and the ability to set recovery mode via GPIO pins, with status indication using an LED.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If configuration files are backed up to backup area whenever modification occurs, then backup timeliness is improved, but backup reliability deteriorates because both CONF and BCONF can be corrupted simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (verification process and dual backup strategy) between the configuration file and backup file. Instead of directly copying CONF to BCONF, the system verifies boot success and uses intermediaries (verified backup files, default configuration files) to ensure recovery reliability even when primary backups are corrupted.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by creating verified backups only after successful boot verification. Before allowing system operation, the system ensures that backup files are created and verified to be functional, preventing propagation of corrupted configurations to backups.
2Reliability
If firmware services are not started due to corrupted configuration files, then system stability is preserved, but recovery capability deteriorates because commands cannot be issued to reset configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service recovery mechanisms where the firmware can automatically detect corruption and restore from verified backups or default configuration files without requiring external intervention. The system services monitor configuration integrity and autonomously initiate recovery processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares cushioning measures in advance by maintaining multiple backup copies (verified and unverified), default configuration files, and automatic recovery mechanisms. These pre-prepared resources ensure that even when services are down, recovery can proceed without requiring command issuance.
3Productivity
If automatic unverified backups are performed at predetermined time intervals, then backup frequency is improved, but storage space consumption increases and backup quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes parameters by implementing different backup strategies (verified vs. unverified, full backup vs. incremental) and adjusting backup frequency based on system state. The system dynamically modifies backup behavior based on whether boot was successful, transforming a static backup approach into an adaptive one that optimizes storage usage.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to systems and methods of backup and recovery of configuration files in a management device. A management device includes a processor and a non-volatile memory storing a configuration file and computer executable code. The computer executable code, when executed at the processor, is configured to: perform backup of the configuration file to generate at least one backup configuration file. The at least one backup configuration file is a verified backup or an unverified backup. The verified backup is generated in response to a successful booting and a user instruction, and the unverified backup is generated by the management device automatically.