A method and system are provided for updating software configurations of line-replaceable
unit (LRU) computers in a restricted architecture network such as an in-flight
entertainment system (IFES). Operating in an efficient and parallel manner, each
of the LRUs independently creates an individual configuration file that identifies
current software components. Each of the LRUs transmits its respective configuration
file to a configuration server either automatically upon startup or manually upon
request. The configuration server updates a system configuration data file with
the current configuration files received from the individual LRUs. In a downloading
method, a download server sends a list of desired software components to the LRUs.
Each of the LRUs independently and simultaneously transfer (download) the needed
software from the download server. The LRU independently requests the download
server to download the needed software components. To improve scalability and reliability,
the file transfers utilize standard protocols, such as FTP.