rupdate

rupdate is based on the concept of so-called pendulum updates. It uses redundant partition sets to enable atomic system updates, safe rollbacks and maximum system availability.

The framework comprises specifications and Rust implementations for the following core components:

Partition Description

The Partition Description defines the system-wide partition structure of an embedded Linux system. It describes:
■  the layout of the partitions
■  the redundant partition sets used
■  formats for making this information available to: Linux systems, user space applications, bootloaders, initramfs, hypervisors

This creates a consistent basis for secure A/B – or pendulum – updates.

Update Tool

The rupdate update tool is a Linux user space application for carrying out and managing system updates.

Its functions include:

■  installing update bundles
■  running system tests after updates
■  automatic rollback in the event of errors
■  synchronising the system status between bootloader and user space

The Rust implementation additionally ensures high stability, memory safety and maintainability.

Update Bundles (packages)

rupdate defines a flexible archive format for update bundles. These bundles contain:

■  partition images
■  metadata
■  update information
■  validation data

The package format has been optimised specifically for embedded Linux systems and enables efficient and reproducible updates.