Abstract: A computer (“patch analysis computer”) retrieves from a website, metadata describing one or more patch files to be used to change software in one or more computers (“target computers”). Prior to installation of the patch files in a target computer, the patch analysis computer performs analysis on the patch files and on the target computer and on application of the patch files to the target computer. The analysis is based on the retrieved metadata and based on configuration data of the target computer. Subsequent to performing the analysis, the management computer displays a report resulting from the analysis including one or more operations to fix issues found during analysis, and receives input from a human on specific patch files and operations. In response to receipt of human input, the patch analysis computer performs operations approved by the human and applies the patch files to the target computer.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that maintains a software system. During operation, the system obtains a compliance policy for the software system and monitors the software system for a violation of the compliance policy. If such a violation is detected, the system retrieves a change package associated with the violation based on the compliance policy and automatically deploys the change package to the software system to resolve the violation.

Abstract: A computer (“patch analysis computer”) retrieves from a website, metadata describing one or more patch files to be used to change software in one or more computers (“target computers”). Prior to installation of the patch files in a target computer, the patch analysis computer performs analysis on the patch files and on the target computer and on application of the patch files to the target computer. The analysis is based on the retrieved metadata and based on configuration data of the target computer. Subsequent to performing the analysis, the management computer displays a report resulting from the analysis including one or more operations to fix issues found during analysis, and receives input from a human on specific patch files and operations. In response to receipt of human input, the patch analysis computer performs operations approved by the human and applies the patch files to the target computer.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that maintains a software system. During operation, the system obtains a compliance policy for the software system and monitors the software system for a violation of the compliance policy. If such a violation is detected, the system retrieves a change package associated with the violation based on the compliance policy and automatically deploys the change package to the software system to resolve the violation.