Patent ID: 8321501
Filing Date: 2012-11-27
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A client device, comprising: a mass storage device; a storage controller coupled with the mass storage device to control access of the mass storage device; a processor coupled with the storage controller, and configured to execute an operating system (OS) configured to access the mass storage device through the storage controller; a networking interface configured to couple the client device with an external server device; a management module coupled with the networking interface, and configured to facilitate the server device in accessing the mass storage device, independent of the OS; and an arbiter coupled with the management module, and with the storage controller or the mass storage device, and configured to arbitrate access to the mass storage device by the storage controller or the management module, wherein the arbiter is further configured to acquire a current status of the OS and provide the management module with full or partial control of the mass storage device based on the status of the OS, wherein the networking interface is configured to facilitate access to an external network to which the server device is coupled, wherein the management module is configured to regulate access to the network interface, including access by the OS.