A barcode reader for providing decoded data to a remote computing system includes barcode reading hardware, including an image sensor which captures an image of a barcode within a field of view and a communication interface for output of the decoded data to a remote computing system. The barcode reader also includes volatile memory, non-volatile memory comprising start-up instructions, and a processor. The processor is configured to, upon power-up of the barcode reader, execute the start-up instructions to obtain firmware for operating the barcode reader from a remote configuration server, load the firmware to the volatile memory, and commence execution of the firmware to commence barcode reading functions of the barcode reader without performing a re-boot operation.