OS Update Without Memory Reset via Virtual Snapshots
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for reloading an operating system (OS) in computer systems require memory reset, leading to data loss and costly downtime, especially in servers with large RAM, due to unstable technologies like Microsoft Windows Hotpatching and complex data migration processes.
Innovation Solution
A method that reloads the OS without memory reset by using snapshots of Virtual Machines or containers, allowing the new OS to launch and restore system data from these snapshots, minimizing downtime and data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional OS reloading methods are used, then the operating system can be updated, but memory reset is required causing data loss and long downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating snapshots of the file system and memory state before OS reloading begins. These snapshots preserve data in advance, allowing the system to restore from them after the new OS is loaded, thereby avoiding data loss and minimizing downtime during the update process.
2Loss of information
If data is transferred to external media for backup, then file system data is preserved, but transfer time becomes unacceptably long for large RAM
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating in-memory snapshots of the file system and memory state instead of transferring data to external media. These snapshot copies are maintained in system memory and can be rapidly restored after OS reloading, eliminating the need for slow external data transfer while preserving all file system data.
3Productivity
If hot-patching technology is used, then OS updates can be applied without full reinstallation, but the technology is highly unstable and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces snapshots as an intermediary mechanism between the old and new operating systems. The snapshots serve as a stable mediator that preserves the system state, allowing the new OS to be loaded and configured without the instability and complexity of hot-patching, while still enabling rapid updates.
4Reliability
If data migration to another server is performed, then OS updates can be applied, but additional server cost and migration downtime are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data preservation function from external infrastructure (other servers or media) and implements it directly within the system memory through snapshots. This eliminates the need for additional servers or complex migration infrastructure, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable OS update capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for updating an operating system (OS) without a memory reset. The method includes launching a Virtual Execution Environment (VEE) under a host OS of a computer system. The VEE can be a VM or a Container. Next, a snapshot of the VEE is generated, including snapshotting user process data, of any processes that run under the VEE. A new OS is loaded onto the computer system, and control is given to the new OS without performing the memory reset. It is ensured that the user process data that is part of the snapshot is unaffected by the loading of the new OS and that the user process data remains in its original location. The VEE is re-launched under the new OS. User process data is restored from the snapshot into a random access memory.