Kernel Debugging via Kwasm Engine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current kernel debugging methods for Linux systems are complex and require deep knowledge of kernel source codes and compilation environments, making them inaccessible to non-professionals and prone to system downtime if used improperly.
Innovation Solution
A kernel debugging system comprising a user interface module, compilation module, and a Kwasm engine installed in the system kernel to interpret and execute WebAssembly object files, allowing developers to write program codes without focusing on kernel details, using a simplified interface and supporting 64-bit formats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional kernel debugging methods (modifying kernel source codes, Kgdb, Perf, ftrace) are used, then kernel debugging capability is achieved, but system complexity and professional requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate debugging system that sits between the user and the kernel, translating high-level debugging operations into kernel-specific actions. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of kernel debugging, allowing users to debug kernels without directly modifying source codes or understanding intricate kernel internals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy or model of the kernel debugging environment that runs independently from the actual kernel. This copying approach allows developers to simulate and debug kernel behaviors without directly interfering with the running kernel, reducing system complexity and risk.
2Adaptability or versatility
If kernel source codes are modified and recompiled for debugging, then debugging flexibility is improved, but system stability and downtime risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs debugging preparations in advance by creating debuggable versions of kernel code or preparing debugging configurations before the actual debugging session. This preliminary action allows debugging to be conducted on prepared artifacts rather than requiring live modification of running kernel code, thus maintaining system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements protective measures beforehand, such as creating backup kernel images, setting up rollback mechanisms, or using virtualization to isolate debugging operations. These cushioning measures ensure that if debugging operations cause issues, the system can be restored without downtime or stability problems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If new kernel modules are created for debugging, then debugging functionality is enhanced, but compilation environment requirements and matching complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal debugging module or framework that can work across different kernel versions and configurations without requiring separate compilation environments for each case. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for complex matching between debug modules and specific kernel source codes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses configurable parameters and metadata to adapt debugging modules to different kernel environments dynamically, rather than requiring static compilation matching. By changing parameters at runtime based on the target kernel's characteristics, the system enhances debugging functionality without imposing strict compilation environment requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a kernel debugging system and method. The kernel debugging system includes: a user interface module, the user interface module being configured to edit program codes and output an execution result of the program codes; a compilation module, the compilation module being configured to compile the program codes into object files; and a Kwasm engine, the Kwasm engine being directly installed in a system kernel of an operating system, and being configured to interpret and execute the object files in a kernel mode, so as to obtain the execution result of the program codes. On the basis of the kernel debugging system, a user can write program codes like writing a common application program, namely, the program codes can be run and executed in a system kernel without paying attention to details of the system kernel.