Method, computer program product, and system for dynamically refreshing software modules within an actively running computer system

摘要

A method, computer program product, and system for dynamically refreshing software modules within an actively running computer system is provided. An existing module or multiple modules (recognizable units of executable code) is ready for execution in an active computer system. New modules corresponding in function to the existing modules are loaded into the computer system memory for the purpose of updating the existing modules. The new modules are prepared for execution by pointing to corresponding state data currently being used by the existing modules and otherwise made ready to take over execution. A lock is held on execution exclusively be the refreshing process for a relatively brief moment in order to switch access from the call point or call references from the existing modules to the new modules. The lock is released now allowing execution of the new modules with the existing data thus accomplishing the update or refresh of the modules. Finally, the previous or “old” modules are removed from memory.