Automated Software Update Distribution via Client Polling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing software updates across a large network of computers is resource-intensive and often requires manual installations, leading to inefficiencies, security vulnerabilities, and increased costs due to the need for overtime work or external contractors, with existing automated tools lacking scalability and reporting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a central server with mirror servers and clients that automatically check for and download software updates, featuring a data model for individual file management, resuming downloads in case of connection loss, and employing boosters for scalability, along with a central administrative interface for monitoring and reporting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual software installation is performed during normal business hours, then software updates can be installed, but employee productivity is reduced due to installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by preparing software updates in advance and scheduling them for automatic installation during off-hours or maintenance windows. The update package is staged and ready before the actual installation occurs, minimizing disruption to business operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The software distribution system is self-service oriented, automatically detecting client computers, transferring update packages, and installing software without requiring manual IT staff intervention at each workstation. The system autonomously manages the entire update lifecycle.
2Reliability
If manual software installation is performed by IT staff, then software updates can be installed, but labor costs increase due to overtime or external contractors
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for manual IT staff intervention by implementing automated software distribution. The server automatically manages update deployment across the network, replacing the need for overtime pay or external contractor services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual process of IT staff physically visiting each computer with an automated electronic distribution system. Software is transferred and installed remotely through the network, substituting human labor with automated computational processes.
3Productivity
If existing automated software distribution tools are used, then installation time is reduced, but scalability and reporting capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The server implements multi-functional capabilities, handling not only software distribution but also file transfer, status monitoring, reporting, and system management tasks. This universal platform adapts to various network sizes and requirements without needing separate specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is dynamically scalable, allowing the server to adapt to growing network sizes by adjusting its capacity and configuration. The architecture supports flexible deployment scenarios from small to large networks, with reporting capabilities that can be customized based on organizational needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A method in a network of the delivery of files from a server computer (101) to a client computer (102) in which the client computer is polling the server computer looking to see in the server if at least one new file associated with this client computer is available. If yes, then the client computer is downloading the files associated with this client computer at specific intervals. The client computer is all by itself polling the server computer at specific intervals and it itself controls the downloading of the updates which occurs at times during which the downloading does not disturb the working of the client computer.