Peer-to-peer distribution of firmware

摘要

A firmware distribution system is disclosed with particular application to integrating a plurality of ancillary endpoints into an existing network (100) of endpoints (102). The ancillary endpoints being coupled to an isolated network and a master device downloading the desired firmware to the ancillary endpoints in a peer-to-peer distribution. An administrator (109) may be coupled to the isolated network for providing a management and control mechanism for an installer. Once the ancillary network (108) has the firmware loaded, the network may be tested prior to integration with the existing network of endpoints. Upon verification of the download and operation of the ancillary endpoints, the ancillary endpoints can be readily integrated with the existing network without major disruption to the existing network.