Performing live updates to file system volumes

Abstract

The present invention provides 'performing live updates to file system volumes'. The described embodiments set forth techniques for performing live updates to file system volumes (e.g., operating system (OS) file system volumes) of computing devices through the utilization of snapshots. In particular, the techniques enable a computing device to remain active while a majority of an update process is performed, which eliminates the considerable functional downtime that is normally imposed when implementing conventional update techniques. Moreover, the overall robustness of the update process isenhanced as the techniques described herein reduce the amount of time that is required for the computing device to remain in the above-described specialized update mode.

Description

technical field [0001] The described embodiments propose techniques for performing real-time updates to a computing device's file system volume by utilizing snapshots. Background technique [0002] Existing methods for performing operating system (OS) updates are task intensive and prone to errors. For example, a general method for updating the OS of a mobile device involves the following steps: (1) receiving an OS update package at the mobile device, (2) opening the OS update package, (3) rebooting the mobile device into a dedicated update mode and performing the update (according to the OS update package) to generate an updated OS, and (4) reboot the device / load the updated OS. Unfortunately, step (3) is associated with several large deficiencies that have not yet been resolved. For example, when step (3) is performed, the mobile device enters an inoperable state for a relatively long period of time, where the user of the mobile device cannot use important functions (eg,...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

For example, when step (3) is performed, the mobile device enters an inoperable state for a considerable period of time, in which the user of the mobile device cannot use the important functions normally provided by the mobile device (for example, connection)

Also, while step (3) is being performed, the dedicated update mode leaves the mobile device in a vulnerable state that may render the mobile device inoperable, such as in the event of a power failure, in the event of an update failure, etc.

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