Remote Operating System Conversion via Loopback File System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Converting operating systems on servers, especially in payment networks, often requires on-site technical intervention, leading to downtime and inconvenience due to unsupported file systems and data redundancy issues.
Innovation Solution
A network-based system and method for remotely converting an operating system on a host computing device from a first OS to a second OS, using an OSC computing device that retrieves an archive file, generates a kickstart file, and formats data storage devices to enable seamless installation without physical access, maintaining data redundancy and allowing dual-booting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If operating system conversion is performed using traditional methods, then the new operating system can be installed, but on-site technical intervention is required and downtime is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by creating a bootable image containing the new operating system and configuration files before the conversion process. The bootable image is prepared in advance with all necessary components (kernel, file system, drivers) so that when the conversion is initiated, the system can automatically boot and install without requiring on-site technical intervention during the actual conversion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service conversion by implementing an automated boot process that detects the need for OS conversion, automatically boots from the prepared image, and completes the installation without human intervention. The conversion process is self-managed through automated scripts and configuration files that guide the installation, eliminating the need for on-site technical personnel.
2Ease of manufacture
If operating system conversion is performed traditionally, then the new OS can be installed, but additional data storage devices and reboots are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the operating system installation media with the existing storage infrastructure by creating a bootable image that can be loaded into memory or stored on the existing data storage devices. Instead of requiring separate installation media (CDs, USB drives), the system combines the OS image with the server's existing storage resources, eliminating the need for additional storage devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing data storage devices are made multi-functional by enabling them to serve both as operational storage and as repositories for the bootable OS image. The system can boot from various locations (memory, disk, network) and use the same storage infrastructure for both installation and operational purposes, reducing hardware requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If file system architecture is not supported by the new operating system, then conversion can proceed, but data accessibility and redundancy are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a file system translation layer or intermediary that enables compatibility between the old and new file system architectures. This intermediary layer allows the new operating system to access and manage data stored in the previous file system format without requiring direct support, thereby maintaining data accessibility and integrity during the transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts file system parameters and conversion settings based on the detected previous file system type. By changing parameters such as block size, allocation methods, and metadata structures during the conversion process, the system ensures that data can be properly translated and accessed in the new file system architecture while maintaining redundancy and integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An operating system conversion (OSC) computing device generates a custom archive file including an OS image file associated with a second operating system (OS) for a host computing device having a first OS. The OSC computing device formats a data storage device of the host computing device to include a first partition associated with the first OS and a second partition associated with the second OS, transmits the custom archive file to the host computing device, and generates, using the custom archive file, a loopback file system mounted to the host computing device to emulate a physical data storage device. The OS image file is accessible though the loopback file system. The OSC computing device stores the OS image file within an install directory of the second partition and converts an OS operating on the host computing device from the first OS to the second OS.