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How often should patches be updated on embedded systems?

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Patching is a vital process for maintaining the security, functionality, and performance of any software system. However, when it comes to embedded systems, such as those used in IoT devices, medical equipment, or industrial controllers, patching can be more challenging and risky than in conventional systems. In this article, you will learn about the factors that affect how often patches should be updated on embedded systems, and some best practices for patch management.

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1 Patch frequency

The frequency of patching an embedded system depends on several factors, such as the criticality of the system, the availability of the system, the complexity of the system, the type and severity of the vulnerabilities, and the regulatory and contractual requirements. For example, a system that controls a nuclear reactor may need more frequent and urgent patches than a system that monitors a thermostat. Similarly, a system that is always online may need more frequent patches than a system that is offline or isolated. However, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often patches should be updated on embedded systems, as each system has its own context and constraints.

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Timo Peraglie

Individuelle L?sungen für IoT-Projekte und Energiemanagement
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Notwendigkeit von Patches kann sich auch aus sich ?ndernden regulatorischen Anforderungen ergeben. Seit es für einige Ger?te eine FW OTA-Updatepflicht gibt, sollte man sich fragen, inwieweit solche Systeme noch Bestandschutz genie?en (dürfen).

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2 Patch testing

Before applying any patch to an embedded system, it is essential to test it thoroughly in a simulated or isolated environment. Testing ensures that the patch does not introduce any bugs, errors, or compatibility issues that could compromise the system or cause unintended consequences. Testing also helps to evaluate the impact of the patch on the system's performance, functionality, and reliability. Testing should cover all the possible scenarios and use cases of the system, and involve both automated and manual methods. Testing should also be documented and verified by relevant stakeholders.

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Timo Peraglie

Individuelle L?sungen für IoT-Projekte und Energiemanagement
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In diesem Zusammenhang ist eine Fallback-M?glichkeit auf die vorige Firmware-Version unabdingbar. Gerade bei Bare-Metal-Systemen, auf denen ein OS fehlt, müssen komplexe OTA-Updatemechanismen umgesetzt werden, die speziell angepasste und sichere Booloader bedingen.

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3 Patch deployment

After testing, the patch can be deployed to the embedded system, either manually or automatically. Manual deployment involves physically accessing the system and applying the patch using a removable media, a network connection, or a wireless interface. Automatic deployment involves using a remote management tool or a firmware update mechanism to push the patch to the system over the air or over the internet. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the system's characteristics and requirements. For example, manual deployment may be more secure and reliable, but also more time-consuming and labor-intensive. Automatic deployment may be more convenient and efficient, but also more vulnerable and prone to errors.

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Timo Peraglie

Individuelle L?sungen für IoT-Projekte und Energiemanagement
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Vgl. auch hier das unter Punkt 2 genannte FOTA fallback. Dazu geh?rt natürlich das korrekte Handling, insbesondere die Information, warum ein Patch-Deployment fehlgeschlagen ist. (Falsche Target-Plattform, vor allem wenn verschiedene HW-Revisionen im Feld sind, etc.)

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4 Patch verification

Once the patch is deployed, it is important to verify that it has been installed correctly and that it works as expected. Verification involves checking the system's status, logs, and reports to confirm that the patch has been applied successfully and that there are no issues or anomalies. Verification also involves testing the system's functionality, performance, and security after the patch to ensure that there are no regressions or degradation. Verification should be done as soon as possible after the patch deployment, and repeated periodically to monitor the system's health and stability.

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5 Patch rollback

Sometimes, a patch may fail to install properly, cause unexpected problems, or have negative effects on the system. In such cases, it may be necessary to rollback the patch, which means to undo the changes made by the patch and restore the system to its previous state. Rollback can be done either manually or automatically, depending on the system's capabilities and configuration. Rollback should be done carefully and quickly, as it may involve some risks and challenges, such as data loss, system downtime, or inconsistency. Rollback should also be documented and reported, and the root cause of the patch failure should be analyzed and resolved.

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6 Patch management

Patch management is the process of planning, implementing, and maintaining patches for embedded systems. Patch management involves several steps, such as identifying, prioritizing, testing, deploying, verifying, and rolling back patches. Patch management also involves several tools, such as patch scanners, patch distributors, patch validators, and patch removers. Patch management requires coordination, communication, and collaboration among different stakeholders, such as developers, vendors, operators, and users. Patch management aims to ensure that embedded systems are always updated, secure, and functional, while minimizing the risks and costs associated with patching.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How often should patches be updated on embedded systems?

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1 Patch frequency

2 Patch testing

3 Patch deployment

4 Patch verification

5 Patch rollback

6 Patch management

7 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Engineering

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How often should patches be updated on embedded systems?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Patch frequency

2 Patch testing

3 Patch deployment

4 Patch verification

5 Patch rollback

6 Patch management

7 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Engineering

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