In a method for validating software updates, a data processing system contains a current version of a software component. The data processing system saves at least first and second current advance keys (AKs). After saving the current AKs, the data processing system receives an update package for a new version of the software component. The data processing system extracts a digital signature and two or more new AKs from the update package. The data processing system uses at least one current AK to determine whether the digital signature is valid. In response to a determination that the digital signature is valid, the data processing system uses a software image from the update package to update the software component, and the data processing system saves the new AKs, for subsequent utilization as the current AKs.