Microkernel OS Service Extensions for Cyber-Resilient Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microkernel-based operating systems face challenges in providing high-security isolation of user-space applications while maintaining performance, especially in real-time and embedded systems that require formal verification and are vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a set of operating system services that enable microkernels to provide performant and high-security isolation of user-space applications natively, without modifying the microkernel, and include features like functional component isolation, self-contained processes, and siloed software operations to enhance cyber-resiliency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a microkernel is used to provide high-security isolation and formal verification, then cyber-security guarantees are improved, but the functionality and usability features are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments functionality into two distinct layers: a formally verified microkernel providing security guarantees and isolation, and user-space services providing full OS functionality. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the kernel for security and verification, and the services for functionality and usability.
Solution Approach 2:
User-space services act as intermediaries between applications and the microkernel, providing a full system call interface while the microkernel maintains formal verification guarantees. This intermediary layer enables conventional applications to run on the verified microkernel without compromising security.
2Adaptability or versatility
If user-space services are added to provide full OS functionality, then usability and functionality are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides complexity into manageable segments: the microkernel remains simple and formally verified, while user-space services handle the complexity of full OS functionality. This segmentation prevents complexity from overwhelming the verified kernel while still providing comprehensive features.
Solution Approach 2:
User-space services are self-contained processes that manage their own resources and operations independently. This self-service approach reduces the burden on the microkernel and simplifies the overall system architecture by distributing complexity across independent service processes.
3Reliability
If formal verification is applied to the microkernel, then security assurance is improved, but development time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Formal verification is applied partially - only to the microkernel component that requires security guarantees, rather than the entire system. This partial application of verification reduces development time and cost while still providing the necessary security assurance for the critical kernel layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments verification requirements, applying formal verification only to the microkernel where security is critical, while user-space services use conventional development and testing approaches. This segmented verification strategy optimizes the balance between security assurance and development efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a system includes: a microkernel having a low-level application programming interface (API) and providing memory protection domains to user-level processes; and an abstraction layer running on top of the microkernel and comprising a plurality of service extensions to the microkernel and configured to provide a high-level operating system (OS) API for use by one or more application processes running in user space, wherein different ones of the service extensions are configured to run within different ones of the memory protection domains provided by the microkernel.