Memory Block Integrity Verification via Checksum Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems do not provide continuous memory verification in online computing devices, which is crucial for high-reliability systems that require flawless operation over extended periods, especially during emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for continuously verifying memory device integrity without intercepting write operations or modifying the operating system kernel, using a loadable kernel module or utility application that calculates checksums and compares them to prior values to ensure data integrity, even when memory blocks are mapped to different files over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous memory verification is implemented in online computing devices, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a verification manager as an intermediary component that coordinates between the checksum calculator, memory management system, and verification logic. This mediator organizes the verification process by managing memory blocks, tracking verification states, and coordinating checksum calculations without requiring fundamental changes to the operating system kernel or memory management structures, thereby improving reliability while controlling complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides memory into discrete memory blocks that can be individually verified, tracked, and managed. Each memory block is associated with a checksum value and verification status, allowing the system to verify memory integrity in manageable segments rather than treating memory as a monolithic structure. This segmentation enables continuous verification without overwhelming system complexity
2Reliability
If memory verification is performed continuously, then reliability is improved, but loss of time occurs due to verification overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic verification of memory blocks rather than continuous verification of all memory simultaneously. The verification manager periodically selects memory blocks for verification based on usage patterns and priority, calculating checksums at intervals rather than continuously. This periodic approach maintains reliability by regularly verifying memory integrity while minimizing time overhead by avoiding constant verification of all memory regions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent verifies only the necessary portion of memory at any given time rather than performing exhaustive verification of entire memory space continuously. The verification manager prioritizes verification of actively used memory blocks and defers verification of inactive or less critical memory regions. This partial verification approach provides sufficient reliability for high-reliability operations while significantly reducing the time overhead associated with verifying all memory
3Adaptability or versatility
If memory blocks are remapped to different files, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to checksum validation challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the verification manager tracks the mapping status of each memory block and receives notifications when memory blocks are remapped to different files. When a remapping event is detected, the system retrieves the appropriate checksum value for the new file mapping and validates it against the memory block contents. This feedback loop ensures that checksum validation remains accurate even as memory blocks are dynamically remapped, maintaining measurement precision while preserving adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-calculates and stores checksum values for memory blocks before they are written to storage, and maintains a mapping between memory blocks and their corresponding file locations. When memory blocks are remapped, the system has already prepared the verification data structures and checksum values needed for rapid validation. This preliminary preparation ensures that checksum validation remains precise during remapping operations without requiring time-consuming recalculation
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for verifying memory device integrity includes identifying at least one memory block corresponding to at least one memory location within a memory device. The memory block is associated with a portion of a file and a checksum representing data within the memory block at a first time. Based at least in part on determining that the memory block is mapped to the same portion of the same file at a second time, it is indicated that the checksum represents expected data within the memory block. A system for verifying memory device integrity is also disclosed.