A segmented linker for generating from an original binary file an upgraded binary file suitable for replacing a copy of the original binary file installed in a target device. The segmented linker receives as inputs a plurality of objects, the original binary file, and a memory map input file associated with a target device. The segmented linker preserves in the upgraded binary file at least some of the spatial locality of reference of code in the original binary file. The segmented linker further receives as an input a linker guideline file that defines the layout of objects having spatial locality of reference in the original binary file. The segmented linker uses the linker guideline file to limit the propagation of cascading address references in the upgraded binary file.