🛠️ ESP8266 Bootloader Fixer

Overview

This project implements a bootloader fixer for the NodeMCU (ESP8266) that allows for seamless recovery from firmware failures. If the current firmware is invalid, the device can load a backup firmware stored in the SPIFFS filesystem.

Features

• 🌐 Wi-Fi Connectivity: Connects to your Wi-Fi network for remote management.
• 🔄 Firmware Validity Check: Verifies if the current firmware is valid before proceeding.
• 💾 Backup Firmware Loading: Loads a backup firmware from SPIFFS if the current firmware is invalid.
• 📡 Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Supports OTA firmware updates for easy deployment.

Requirements

Hardware

• NodeMCU (ESP8266) development board

Software

• Arduino IDE with the ESP8266 board package installed
• Libraries: ESP8266WiFi, FS, SPIFFS, ArduinoOTA

Setup Instructions

1. Install Arduino IDE:

   • Download and install the Arduino IDE.

2. Install ESP8266 Board Package:

   • Open the Arduino IDE.
   • Go to File > Preferences.
   • In the "Additional Board Manager URLs" field, add:

     http://arduino.esp8266.com/stable/package_esp8266com_index.json
     

   • Go to Tools > Board > Board Manager, search for "ESP8266", and install the package.

3. Clone or Download the Repository:

   • Clone this repository or download it as a ZIP file and extract it.

4. Open the Code:

   • Open the provided .ino file in the Arduino IDE.

5. Configure Wi-Fi Credentials:

   • In the code, replace your_SSID and your_PASSWORD with your actual Wi-Fi credentials.

6. Upload the Code:

   • Connect your NodeMCU to your computer.
   • Select the appropriate board and port in the Arduino IDE (Tools > Board > NodeMCU 1.0 (ESP-12E Module) and Tools > Port).
   • Click the upload button to upload the initial firmware.

7. Upload Backup Firmware:

   • Ensure you upload a valid firmware file named backup.bin to the SPIFFS filesystem using a separate sketch.

Usage

• Open the Serial Monitor to observe the connection status to your Wi-Fi network.
• The device will check the firmware validity on startup and load the backup if necessary.
• Use the Arduino IDE for OTA updates by selecting "Upload" while connected to the same network.

Important Notes

• 🗂️ Make sure the backup firmware is valid and thoroughly tested.
• 🔄 Modify the isFirmwareValid() function to fit your application's specific needs.
• ⚠️ Always have a backup plan when testing recovery mechanisms to avoid bricking your device.

Future Enhancements

• 🚀 Web Interface: Develop a web interface for easier firmware management.
• 🔍 Version Management: Implement version checks to ensure compatibility of uploaded firmware.
• 🔒 Enhanced Error Handling: Add more robust error handling for increased reliability.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License. Feel free to modify and use the code for your own projects! 🎉