Management Server Patcher for Distributed Network Patch Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing distributed software applications across multiple nodes in a network poses challenges in coordinating patch distribution and application, as existing solutions lack an efficient mechanism for automating the patching process of management servers within the distributed network.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a management server patcher (MSP) leveraging a management agent on the same node to receive, apply, and distribute patches to management servers, ensuring coordinated patching across the network, with a secure services layer for communication and a patcher module for retrieving and distributing patch files from a software repository.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual patching of management servers is performed, then patch application can be controlled and verified, but patch distribution efficiency is low and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by staging patch files on nodes before actual patch application. The MSP retrieves patch files from software repositories and stores them locally on management server nodes in advance, so that when patching is initiated, the actual application can proceed quickly without network transmission delays during the patching window.
Solution Approach 2:
The management server patcher (MSP) enables self-service automation by automatically retrieving, staging, and applying patches to management servers without manual intervention. The system autonomously coordinates with software repositories, manages patch files, executes patching operations, and handles rollbacks if needed, eliminating the need for manual patching processes.
2Extent of automation
If automated patching is implemented, then patch distribution efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The management server patcher (MSP) is designed as a multi-functional system that consolidates multiple patch management tasks into a single component. It retrieves patches from software repositories, stages them locally on nodes, applies patches to management servers, and handles rollbacks - effectively performing the work of multiple separate tools through a unified automated platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The MSP acts as an intermediary layer between software repositories and management servers. It retrieves patch files from external software repositories, stages them locally on management server nodes, and then applies them to the management servers. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing patch management logic and reducing direct complexity at individual server levels.
3Reliability
If patches are applied during management server operation, then service continuity is maintained, but patch application reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary staging of patch files on the management server node before the actual patch application begins. By retrieving and storing patch files in advance during a maintenance window or low-activity period, the system prepares everything needed for patch application, reducing the actual downtime required when the patch is applied and maintaining service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The MSP implements feedback mechanisms to monitor patch application status and detect failures. If a patch application fails or causes issues, the system can automatically initiate rollback procedures to restore the previous state, ensuring reliability while allowing patches to be applied during operational periods with minimal disruption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automatically patching a management server in a distributed network. The method includes receiving an instruction to patch an unpatched management server. Retrieving, from a software repository, a patch file comprising a patch for the unpatched management server, where the unpatched management server is configured to manage a distributed application in the distributed network, and where the unpatched management server is located on a node of the distributed network. Establishing a connection with a management agent located on the node, where the management agent is configured to communicate with the unpatched management server over the network and manage a part of the distributed application that is located on the node. Sending, over the connection, the patch file to the management agent. Receiving, by the management agent, the patch file. Applying, by the management agent, the patch to the unpatched management server to obtain a patched management server.