Operating System Validation Using Reference Image
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing the internal portions of an operating system that are difficult to access without root permissions is challenging, especially when the system is designed to prevent root access for security reasons, making it hard to verify the functionality of modified components by manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a reference system image that replaces or supplements the framework layer of the operating system, allowing test data to interact with and verify the functionality of the hardware abstraction layer without modifying it, while maintaining security checks and allowing the system to function in end-user mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operating system prevents root access for security reasons, then security is improved, but the ability to test internal portions of the operating system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A reference system image is introduced as an intermediary layer between the test data and the hardware abstraction layer. This reference image contains a reference framework layer that can interact with the hardware abstraction layer without requiring root access to the actual device, thereby enabling testing while maintaining security restrictions on the production system.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of directly accessing and testing the hardware abstraction layer on the production device, a copy (reference system image) of the framework layer is created and used for testing purposes. This copy allows test data to be sent and received without modifying or compromising the security of the actual production system.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If root access is available for testing, then testability of internal portions is improved, but security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reference system image acts as a mediator that provides testing capabilities without requiring root access to the production device. Test data can be sent through this intermediary layer, which then interacts with the hardware abstraction layer, eliminating the need to compromise production system security for testing purposes.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the framework layer is modified to enable testing, then testability is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than modifying the production framework layer, a reference copy of the framework layer is created within the reference system image. This copy can be freely modified and used for testing while the original production framework layer remains unchanged and stable.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for validating an operating system are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes the actions of providing, to a computing device running an operating system that includes, a framework layer, a hardware abstraction layer, and a kernel that includes firmware and drivers, a reference system image that is configured to replace, supplement, or modify the framework layer. The actions further include providing, to the computing device, test data that is configured to verify functionality of the operating system by interacting with the reference system image to test functionality of the hardware abstraction layer without modifying the hardware abstraction layer, wherein the computing device with the framework layer replaced, supplemented, or modified by the reference system image is a non-rooted device. The actions further include determining whether the operating system of the computing device is functioning properly.