A method for software loading and initialization in a distributed network of nodes. A master node provides a node information database and a software package database. A node performing an initial boot requests a boot image and software package download from the master node. The master node finds the node's software configuration information in the node information database and sends the boot image and software packages to the node from the software package database. The node reboots into the boot image and verifies the software versions with the master node. If the node has the correct software, then it completes the boot sequence, otherwise, the master node sends the correct software packages to the node which then continues with the boot sequence.