Dynamic reconfiguration for Java applications using AOP

Abstract

One of the characteristics of contemporary software systems is their ability to adapt to evolutionary computing needs and environments. Dynamic reconfiguration is a way to make changes to software systems at runtime, while typical software changes involve the shutting down and rebooting of software systems. Therefore, dynamic reconfiguration can provide continuous availability for software systems. However, its processes are still complicated and error- prone due to the intervention of human beings. This research describes an aspect-oriented approach to dynamic reconfiguration for Java applications, providing software maintainers with systematic and controlled reconfiguration processes. The features of aspect-oriented programming systems, such as aspect weaving and code instrumentation, are appropriate to the problems of dynamic reconfiguration. This proposed approach is intended to minimize the efforts of software engineers, to enable automated dynamic reconfiguration, and to ensure the integrity of software systems. The primary domain of the research is component-based applications where the addition, removal, and replacement of components might be needed.