Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method of using highly structured net boot testing through an automated process that produces a highly efficient assurance that each image of a new version of an operating system can operate on any designated platform with any combinations of designated non-platform-specific feature sets. The program images being boot tested have previously undergone functional program testing, regression testing, final test and fix procedures and commit procedures at the levels of the business unit, at an intermediate pre-integration branch level and finally at a primary technology branch of the current IOS source code system before final network boot testing is performed as an antecedent to a regular release of a new version of the IOS.