Over-the-air (OTA) updates are remote software or firmware updates delivered to connected devices without a site visit. In EV charging, OTA updates typically mean updating an EV charger’s firmware, communication stack, security components (certificates), or connected gateway/router configuration via a CPMS (often through OCPP) or a vendor device-management platform.
What OTA updates can include
– Firmware bug fixes (session handling, connector lock behavior, fault recovery)
– Security patches and vulnerability fixes
– Communication improvements (OCPP stability, TLS/certificate handling)
– Feature additions (smart charging logic, diagnostics, new capabilities)
– Configuration package updates (site limits, authorization modes, UI messages)
– Modem/router profiles (APN/VPN settings) where centrally managed
– Certificate and credential updates for secure connectivity
Why OTA updates matter in EV charging networks
– Improve uptime by reducing recurring faults and stability issues
– Reduce maintenance trips and lower OPEX
– Address cybersecurity risks faster than field interventions
– Keep chargers compatible with CPMS and roaming ecosystem changes
– Enable consistent fleet-wide improvements across many sites
Typical OTA update workflow
A robust OTA process usually follows:
– Validate firmware in lab/staging and on a small pilot group
– Plan rollout windows to avoid peak utilization periods
– Execute phased deployment with monitoring (online rate, session success rate)
– Run post-update checks (connectivity, metering, start/stop, alarms)
– Maintain rollback or recovery procedures for failed updates
– Record audit logs: version, device list, timestamps, approvals
Risks and considerations
– Interrupted connectivity can cause partial updates or temporary outages
– Fleet-wide misconfiguration can affect many sites at once
– Behavior changes after updates may impact billing, UX, or smart charging outcomes
– Certificate changes can break connectivity if lifecycle management is weak
– Multi-vendor networks require careful compatibility and regression testing
Security best practices
– Use a secure update pipeline with signed firmware and integrity validation
– Deliver updates over encrypted channels (TLS)
– Restrict update permissions with RBAC and MFA
– Keep detailed logs and monitoring for anomalies after rollout
– Verify supplier provenance and maintain change control documentation
Related glossary terms
OTA control
Firmware lifecycle management
Secure update pipeline
Firmware updates
OCPP
CPMS
Uptime
Mean Time To Repair (MTTR)
Network segmentation
Cybersecurity audits