Changelog Interviews Voices of Oxide
Sep 26, 2025
In this conversation, Cliff Biffle, a firmware engineer, dives into the intricacies of pre-main CPU work and the advantages of using Rust in firmware development. Dave Pacheco, leading the update system, introduces a novel self-service approach to software updates and discusses unique challenges in managing updates for Hubris. Ben Leonard shares insights into Oxide's cohesive design language, merging retro nostalgia with modern aesthetics, while emphasizing the importance of balancing functionality with creative expression in hardware design. A fascinating mix of engineering and design reveals the innovative spirit at Oxide!
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Make Pay Transparent To Reduce Stress
- Use uniform, transparent compensation to reduce workplace stress and pay negotiation anxiety.
- That transparency encourages openness about personal struggles and fairness discussions.
Two-Year Update Journey
- Dave Pacheco has led the Update project building self-service and non-disruptive updates for two years.
- They first shipped a minimal upgradable product to enable field upgrades via support tools.
Updates Are System-Wide Transactions
- An Oxide software update touches hundreds of components across sleds, switches, and controllers.
- Operators consume a bundled release and the system orchestrates component-level changes automatically.