Abstract: Communication links, such as peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) links between two PCIe-compatible devices, can be checked during a boot process to determine whether those links were established and trained successfully. Firmware, such as Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), can be programmed to determine links for which there are PCIe devices, and determine whether those links were established with the correct values for one or more connection parameters (e.g., speed and width). If one or more of these links was not established with the correct parameter values, the BIOS can perform up to a maximum or threshold number of retrain attempts. If those retrain attempts are unsuccessful, the BIOS can attempt up to a maximum or threshold number of reboot attempts. If, after a maximum number of reboot actions, one or more links still have not been established and trained successfully, a remedial action can be taken.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide for the live updating of system software or firmware, such as BIOS information, without the need for a reboot. A payload containing BIOS update information can be generated and signed with an encryption key. The information in the payload is able to be updated through a live update, and can be selected in part based on the configuration and BIOS version of the computing device to be updated. Upon an update being triggered, a target device is placed into a management mode wherein normal work is suspended and the device is isolated. The payload is verified and decrypted, and appropriate functions called in order to update the relevant BIOS information. After the update is verified, the device exits management mode and resumes a typical workflow. If the update is not successful, or unable to be performed via live update, a conventional update can be performed that includes a reboot.