Linux Package Distribution via Pre-Cached ISO Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for distributing large-sized Linux software packages face challenges such as lengthy installation times, dependency compatibility issues, lack of offline dependency downloads, and data integrity concerns, particularly with rpm and deb packages.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a pre-customized disc image system for Linux software distribution, which includes creating a minimal Linux system, caching dependencies, generating an ISO image, and implementing data integrity checks to ensure stable and secure installation without network dependencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional rpm or deb software packages are used for distribution, then the software can be distributed in standard formats, but the installation time becomes excessively long and dependency compatibility issues arise across different Linux versions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-resolves dependency compatibility issues by testing and verifying all dependency packages against multiple Linux versions before distribution. The complete dependency chain is prepared in advance with compatibility information embedded in the package metadata, allowing the installer to quickly determine compatibility without time-consuming runtime resolution or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the software distribution into modular units with clearly defined dependency relationships. Each package contains embedded dependency metadata that is pre-analyzed and structured, allowing the installer to efficiently process dependency resolution in discrete steps rather than attempting to resolve all dependencies simultaneously, thereby reducing installation time.
2Reliability
If network-dependent package management tools like yum or apt are used, then the latest version of dependency software can be downloaded, but the system cannot be installed without network connection and the downloaded dependencies may be incompatible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs comprehensive compatibility testing of all dependency packages against multiple Linux versions during the packaging phase. Compatibility information is pre-calculated and embedded in the package metadata, enabling the system to determine compatibility offline without requiring network access to verify versions. This allows reliable offline installation with guaranteed compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a self-contained package image that includes not only the software but also all necessary dependency packages and their compatibility information. This copied, self-sufficient package structure eliminates the need for external network resources during installation, while the embedded compatibility data ensures that the correct versions are installed even without network verification.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional package distribution methods are used, then the distribution process is simple, but there is no data integrity checking mechanism exposing the software to potential tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements cryptographic hash verification (MD5, SHA1, SHA256) that provides feedback on package integrity during distribution and installation. The expected hash values are embedded in the package metadata, and the installer automatically verifies the actual hash of downloaded or extracted files, providing immediate feedback on whether the package has been tampered with or corrupted, thereby ensuring data security without significantly complicating the distribution process.
4Extent of automation
If the yum or apt tools download the latest version of dependency software by default, then the installation process is automated, but the downloaded dependency may be insufficient for the large-sized Linux software
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs comprehensive dependency analysis and compatibility verification during the packaging phase, before distribution. The package metadata contains pre-resolved dependency information specifying exact version requirements and compatibility constraints. The automated installer uses this pre-computed information to automatically select and install the correct dependency versions without needing to query external repositories or make automated decisions about compatibility, ensuring both automation and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for distributing large-sized Linux software packages, in a field of a Linux software distribution, includes steps of: installing a Linux minimal system; obtaining a log file of the installing, and setting a cache of a local download rpm; building an environment for creating iso, and creating a working directory; testing an environment dependency of a developed software and packaging into rpm packages, copying the downloaded rpm packages within the cache into the working directory, and registering; installing tools of createrpo and mkisofs for generating a disc; editing a kickstart file, ks.cfg; generating and modifying a comps.xml to designating the rpm packages and dependencies thereof which are required within a software archive of the system; generating an iso file of gcloud, and verifying with MD5 value. The method is applicable to a large-sized software package distribution by overcoming version verification and vulnerability to network.