Virtual Clone System for Software Compatibility Pre-testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for software compatibility testing are inefficient, leading to storage space consumption and increased burden on MIS engineers due to passive detection of incompatibility issues during software or operating system updates, which can cause system errors and downtime.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for pre-testing software compatibility by generating a virtual machine with a clone system, installing new software or patches on it, and executing compatibility tests before installation on the actual system, thereby determining whether the new software or patch can be safely installed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If system snapshot is used to backup the system image during software installation or update, then the compatibility problem can be detected and recovered, but the storage space consumption increases greatly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual clone system that copies the essential configuration and software environment of the original system, rather than creating full system snapshots. This clone system is used for compatibility testing, allowing the detection of potential conflicts without storing multiple complete system images, thereby reducing storage space while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the compatibility testing process by separating the testing environment (virtual clone system) from the production system. The clone system contains only the necessary components for testing, dividing the full system backup into a smaller, manageable testing subset that consumes less storage space
2Reliability
If system snapshot is used to backup periodically or during updates, then the system can be recovered from errors, but the MIS engineer's burden increases and task efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated compatibility testing system that operates independently without requiring MIS engineer intervention. The system automatically creates virtual clone systems, installs software or patches, executes compatibility tests, and provides results, enabling the system to self-verify compatibility before deployment and eliminating the need for manual backup management and error recovery tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs compatibility testing in advance by installing software or patches in the virtual clone system before deploying them to the production system. This preliminary action identifies potential compatibility issues beforehand, preventing errors from occurring in the live system and eliminating the need for post-deployment recovery operations
3Productivity
If compatibility is not tested before installation, then the installation process is simple and fast, but system errors may occur causing downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a virtual clone system as a copy of the production environment to perform compatibility testing. This clone system mirrors the essential characteristics of the target system, allowing realistic compatibility verification without affecting production operations, thus maintaining both installation speed and system stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual clone system as an intermediary between the software/patch and the production system. Compatibility tests are executed through this intermediary layer, which acts as a buffer that prevents direct conflicts with the production system, ensuring stability while enabling thorough testing
Data Source
AI summary
A method for pre-testing software compatibility is illustrated. A system and software information of an operating system is extracted. While that a patch or new software will be installed in the operating system is detected, whether a compatibility test should be executed is determined. While that the compatibility test should be executed is detected, a virtual machine with a first clone system is generated, wherein the first clone system is generated according to the system and software information. The patch or the new software is installed in the first clone system to generate a second clone system. The compatibility test for the second clone system is executed. According to a result of the compatibility test, whether the patch or new software can be installed in the operating system or the second clone system can be switched to be used is determined.