Abstract: A method for software loading and initialization in a distributed network of nodes. A master node provides a node information database and a software package database. A node performing an initial boot requests a boot image and software package download from the master node. The master node finds the node's software configuration information in the node information database and sends the boot image and software packages to the node from the software package database. The node reboots into the boot image and verifies the software versions with the master node. If the node has the correct software, then it completes the boot sequence, otherwise, the master node sends the correct software packages to the node which then continues with the boot sequence.

Abstract: A method for dynamic installation and activation of software packages in a distributed networking device. A master node provides a software package database that contains software packages for all nodes. It notifies a node that a software update is being requested, which examines the package identifiers and the dependencies and determines the running processes that will be affected by the update. The processes evaluate the effect that the update will have on their operation. If any of the processes determine that the update will degrade or have a negative impact on the operation of the node, the process will veto the update. If the master node receives no vetoes, it updates the node which installs and activates without interrupting the normal operation of the node.