Method and apparatus for managing and automatically updating software programs
US5732275A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 1996 |
| Grant date | Mar 24, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F9/44536
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A software program running on a computer is automatically managed, monitored and updated with a newer version in a completely automated fashion, without interruption of its primary function, and in a manner that is completely transparent to the user of the computer. This is achieved by means of a control module that performs the functions of locating and identifying other versions of its associated program, determining whether the other versions are older or newer than currently stored versions, and downloading a newer version. Multiple versions of the program can remain accessible on the computer, and the control module manages the launching of a particular version that may be required. Statistical data relating to the launching and operation of the program is collected, and uploaded to a central location on a regular basis.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.