Over-the-air (OTA) updates are remote software or firmware updates delivered to connected devices without an on-site visit. In EV charging, OTA updates typically refer to updating an EV charger’s firmware, communications stack, or security components via a CPMS (often using OCPP) or a vendor device-management platform.
What OTA updates can include
– Charger firmware updates (control logic, UI behavior, error handling)
– Security patches and vulnerability fixes
– OCPP communication improvements (stability, reconnect behavior, metering reporting)
– Smart charging and load control feature updates
– Diagnostics and logging enhancements
– Certificate and credential updates (for secure TLS/mTLS setups)
– Gateway/router configuration updates (APN, VPN, firewall rules) where centrally managed
Why OTA updates matter
– Improve uptime by fixing defects and reducing recurring faults
– Lower OPEX by reducing truck rolls and manual commissioning work
– Reduce cybersecurity risk through faster patching
– Maintain compatibility with evolving CPMS features and integrations
– Enable consistent improvements across large fleets of chargers
Typical OTA rollout process
A well-run OTA process usually includes:
– Testing in staging and piloting on a small subset of chargers
– Phased rollout by model, region, or site type
– Scheduling during low-utilization windows
– Post-update validation (online status, start/stop success, metering, alarms)
– Rollback/recovery plan if issues occur
– Version tracking and audit logs for governance and troubleshooting
Risks and considerations
– Connectivity interruptions can cause failed or partial updates
– A faulty release can create widespread downtime if not phased
– Firmware changes can affect billing, session logic, or user experience
– Certificate lifecycle mistakes can take chargers offline at scale
– Different vendors may interpret features differently even under the same OCPP version
Security best practices
– Use a secure update pipeline with signed firmware and integrity checks
– Deliver updates over TLS and restrict who can initiate them (RBAC, MFA)
– Log all update actions (who, what, where, when)
– Monitor network KPIs after rollout (offline spikes, session failure rate)
– Keep strong change control and release documentation
Related glossary terms
OTA control
Firmware lifecycle management
Secure update pipeline
OCPP
CPMS
Uptime
Mean Time To Repair (MTTR)
Network segmentation
Cybersecurity audits
Monitoring access