Abstract: A modular BIOS update mechanism provides a standardized method to update options ROMs and to provide video and processor microcode upgrades in a computer system without requiring a complete replacement of the system BIOS. The MBU mechanism provides several advantages. First, new features and BIOS bugs from earlier release may be delivered to an installed base of end-user systems even if direct OEM support cannot be identified. Also, BIOS components may be provided as a validated set of revisions. With resort to a validation matrix, BIOS updates may be managed easily. The modular BIOS update is particularly useful in systems having several independent BIOS's stored within unitary firmware.

Abstract: An arrangement to protect individual files or data stored in a memory based upon the application attempting a read or write access. A user may set the conditions for access to protected files or directories stored in the memory. When an access to a protected file or directory is made a filter reads the conditions and compares the request with the conditions before allowing access to the files or directories.

Abstract: Embodiments include monitoring a computing system to determine whether firmware of the computing system is corrupted, hung up, or requires automatic update. The computing system may then request firmware update data over a network. Moreover, the computing system may include a controller with capability to determine whether the firmware is corrupted or hung and request and receive firmware update data over a network. In addition, the controller may have the capability operate when the firmware is corrupted or hung up, if the processor is held up, and if the operating system is halted, hung up, or soft-off. In addition, if the controller detects that the firmware is corrupted or hung up, the controller may halt the processor while updating the firmware.