The present invention provides a method for upgrading embedded
configuration databases while a network device is operating and with
minimal disruption to network device operation. While a network device is
operating and using an embedded primary configuration database, an
embedded backup configuration database stops performing as a backup
database and is upgraded. The upgraded configuration database is then
switched over to become the primary configuration database. The original
primary configuration database may immediately become the backup
configuration database, or the original primary configuration database
may remain unchanged until the upgrade is committed. If the upgrade is
not committed, for example, due to errors, then the original primary
configuration database may be quickly switched over to again become the
primary configuration database. As a result, embedded configuration
databases may be upgraded while a network device is operating and with
minimal disruption to network device operation.