Dynamic updates: another middleware service?

ABSTRACT

Middleware simplifies the construction of distributed applications. These applications typically require continuous uptime. The maintenance of distributed applications, though, imposes costly downtime. The evolution of software systems is therefore an important concern for middleware systems. We present a model that enables us to update an application without terminating its execution. We see software updates as cross-cutting concerns and therefore express updates as aspects which are woven into the application. The aspect-oriented approach ensures that updates are modular and atomic.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.7 Distribution, Maintenance, and Enhancement
          Subjects: Version control

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.4 Processors

  F. Theory of Computation
  F.3 LOGICS AND MEANINGS OF PROGRAMS
      F.3.2 Semantics of Programming Languages
          Subjects: Program analysis

General Terms:
Design, Languages

Keywords:
aspect-orientation, software updating, system evolution