Type 1 VMM Launch via Type 2 Isolation Kernel Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is currently no safe method to launch a type 1 Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) after an operating system has been enabled, leading to potential system instability, especially during OS changes or updates.
Innovation Solution
A type 2 VMM is used to de-link the operating system from underlying processor hardware, allowing the launch of a type 1 VMM or other tasks requiring direct access, by isolating the processor and saving the OS state, enabling the transition from a type 2 to a type 1 VMM or a scanning utility, effectively bypassing the need for an active OS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a type 1 VMM is launched after the operating system is enabled by directly accessing core OS data structures, then the VMM can be launched, but system stability deteriorates and the system becomes susceptible to failure during OS changes or updates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a special kernel module as an intermediary component that mediates between the type 1 VMM and the operating system core data structures. This kernel module is specifically designed to provide safe access interfaces, preventing direct unauthorized access that causes instability. The intermediary maintains system stability while enabling VMM launch functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by loading a specialized kernel module before launching the type 1 VMM. This kernel module pre-configures safe access paths to core OS data structures, ensuring that when the VMM launches, it does so through pre-established safe interfaces rather than direct access, thereby preventing stability issues during OS changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a type 1 VMM is launched by modifying core operating system data structures without OS knowledge, then the VMM can operate, but the system becomes vulnerable to failures especially during OS updates
Solution Approach 1:
The kernel module serves as a knowledgeable intermediary that understands both the VMM requirements and the OS data structure conventions. It provides adapted access methods that are compatible with OS updates, maintaining reliability while preserving the flexibility to launch type 1 VMMs without requiring OS designer knowledge.
3Productivity
If direct access to operating system core data structures is used to launch a type 1 VMM, then the VMM can be launched early in the boot phase, but security permissions requirements increase and specially designed OS is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The kernel module acts as a permission intermediary that handles security requirements centrally. It provides controlled access interfaces that satisfy security permissions needs without requiring the entire OS to be specially designed for early VMM launch, thus maintaining boot efficiency while reducing overall system complexity requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer program products that provide for the use of a type 2 VMM to de-link or isolate underlying processor hardware from an operating system. This may allow the launching of a task that requires direct access to processor hardware, where such access requires the absence of an operating system. Such a task may take the form of a type 1 VMM, such as an information security or integrity VMM, e.g., an anti-malware VMM.