Patch Management System for Software Compatibility and Rollback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current patch management systems face challenges in efficiently managing and applying patches for software, particularly in maintaining multiple patch configurations, ensuring compatibility, and rolling back patches without requiring software reinstallation, while also handling dependencies and service packs effectively.
Innovation Solution
A patch management system that includes a central location for patch deposition, a local system for storage and application, and a graphical interface for managing patches, which allows for multiple patch configurations, dependency checking, rollback capabilities, and the application of patchsets that combine related patches, ensuring compatibility and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple patch configurations are maintained for the same software program, then patch compatibility and reliability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments patch management into distinct configurations associated with different software versions. Each configuration stores specific patch information for a particular software version, allowing independent management and application of patches to different software instances without interference. This segmentation enables maintaining multiple patch configurations while reducing overall system complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch management system implements a universal data structure that can handle multiple software versions and patch types through a single unified interface. The system uses a common configuration storage mechanism that works across different software programs, eliminating the need for separate management systems for each software version and reducing operational complexity.
2Ease of operation
If patches are applied individually one by one, then patch application flexibility is improved, but time consumption and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual patches into a single patchset that can be applied as one unified unit. The patchset data structure aggregates multiple patch information entries, allowing the system to install multiple patches simultaneously through a single operation. This merging reduces the time and complexity of patch application while maintaining the flexibility to select specific patchsets based on software version and requirements.
3Reliability
If dependency checking is performed for each patch, then patch compatibility is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs dependency checking in advance during patchset creation and configuration setup, rather than during the actual patch installation process. By validating patch compatibility and dependency relationships beforehand, the system builds pre-verified patchsets that can be installed quickly without repeated dependency checks. This preliminary action ensures reliability while maintaining high installation speed.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If rollback capability is implemented without software reinstallation, then system downtime is reduced, but data management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements rollback by creating and maintaining backup copies of patch configuration data rather than requiring software reinstallation. The system stores previous patch states and configuration information that can be restored to a prior state. This copying approach enables quick rollback operations that minimize downtime while managing complexity through structured data storage and retrieval mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Patch management system can be used for maintaining patches downloaded for software. The patch management system can ensure that there are no conflicts between the installed patches.