Abstract: Redirection of accesses to non-existent memory is instead sent to a virtual buffer. The virtual buffer may be implemented in headless systems which include no video buffer. Console redirection may use the virtual buffer to display information about the headless system. Accesses to the non-existent video hardware, either directly or using the BIOS API, are redirected to the virtual buffer before being retrieved by a remote console. The headless system is cheaper and may support additional add-in cards because the system includes no video controller.

Abstract: A secure method for updating computer firmware online is described. The firmware storage locations are write protected prior to loading the operating system. Updating the firmware after loading the operating system helps to reduce downtime.

Abstract: A technique for providing communication between two computers through a network in a way to allow one computer to control the other.

Abstract: A processor-based system includes a system firmware program (e.g., the system basic input/output system (BIOS)) to execute a device firmware program (e.g., a device driver) stored on a storage (e.g., an expansion read-only-memory (ROM)). For execution, the processor-based system uses a system memory including a designated region intended for storing the device firmware program. The system firmware program determines whether the device firmware program exceeds the capacity of the designated region. And, if so, the system firmware program stores the device firmware program in the designated region and at least one another location in the system memory thus supporting larger expansion ROMs on some platforms.

Abstract: Optional features of a computer system are enabled securely. Examples of the system features generally include number of processors, processor speed, memory size, and bus speed. A BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) of the system receives encrypted feature packets from a manufacturer of the system, decrypts, authenticates, and verifies the packets, and stores the decrypted packets in a secure, non-volatile storage. When the system is rebooted, the BIOS enables the optional system features as specified in the feature packets. Accordingly, the optional system features are enabled in a secure manner.

Abstract: A method for using an operating system device for non-operating system uses. A false event signal is generated to indicate that a device should be shut down. After this is accomplished, the device is used for a different purpose while the operating system thinks it is inoperative. Once the other use is completed, another false event signal is generated so that the device is activated again and returned to use in the operating system in normal fashion.