With the progress in humanity, innovations are starting to move towards being digitalized. The vast majority of all human data are stored using digital methods. This would involve the use of computers, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) which is one of the latest technological disruption. These technologies are used to connect devices through digital channels, which are used to transfer data back and forth. On the other hand, the digital world is in constant need for updates. These updates are essential to cope with the increase in data and the overall customers’ requirements.
Why is Software Update Essential?
- Bugs: One of the main problems in computing technology is the number of bugs that rise due to weak developing skills or high amounts of data; which was not accounted for. Updating your software will acts as means to fix and overstep such bugs.
- Security: Unfortunately, cyber security is a huge issue in this era. With many threats rising in the field, updates are always released with better security settings in hopes to lower and eliminate threats.
- Features: The most common reason for software updates is to release new competitive features that copes with the customers’ requirements.
However, with the high numbers of devices invading our planet, it is impossible to provide these software updates through physical means. This is why, Over-the-air (OTA) methods are the most efficient way to deliver software updates. In some cases, the only available method to use is OTA; where physical means can’t be used. The process of software update through OTA is a very complex process where the data is delivered over networks and digital channels to reach your device. This is a very delicate process where you have to ensure proper connection and power connectivity to avoid any errors in the process.
Mender: Your New Solution
With the intensity of such transactions, you should always look for the best service out there to implement the process as efficient as possible. Trying to build your own infrastructure that will achieve efficient OTA might be a real hassle. The amount of time and work spent on the process is way more than you can handle, so is the cost you are about to pay too.
This is why, companies should look for the different software update solution companies out there. Here is where Mender kicks in; it is an end-to-end open source software update solution for connected devices and IoT. You can consider Mender as a ready-made infrastructure that will solve all your software update issues.
Why we use Mender?
No Vendor lock-ins: One thing to look forward too while using Mender is the fact that we won’t face any vendor lock-ins. Mender is an open source, licensed under Apache 2.0. This gives it the complete freedom of being used by the customers without the interference of vendors or other third parties. With Mender, you should no longer worry about getting locked in.
Reduction in customer support issues: Mender focuses on their customers’ experience, making it as smooth as possible. This is achieved through strong security protocols during the update process. The process is focused to be as efficient and optimal as possible, compensating for any pitfalls in the connection. Mender uses image-based updates which acts as a safety net when connectivity problems rise. It will ensure full device connectivity at all times leading to a decrement in system failures and device recalls.
Features and Functionality
The developers of Mender are very concerned with the common software update issues and the hassle customers go through. This has helped them develop Mender with more features that other software update solution provider that surely helps in making the process simpler and more effective for the users. The following is a list of some of the features you can enjoy while using Mender:
- Intuitive UI
- Deployment Reports
- Custom checks via scripting support
- Code signing
Anticipated Progress and Updates
With Mender, there is still much more to look forward too. Gunnebo, which is a multinational business specialized in security services, are of course interested in contributing to Mender, possibly to help implementing the features we and other companies like us needs.
Our first project will be updating Node-RED flows from the Mender v.2 update module. If you are interested in contributing or want to know more – feel free to contact me at: bjorn.nostdahl@gunnebo.com
