Linux Kernel Debugging: Leverage proven tools and advanced techniques to effectively debug Linux kernels and kernel modules

The Linux Kernel Debugging book is a comprehensive guide to learning advanced kernel debugging techniques. It covers topics such as instrumentation-based debugging, memory-related bugs, lock debugging, kernel-level tracing, and handling kernel lockups, hangs, and panics. It is for Linux kernel developers, module/driver authors, and testers interested in debugging and enhancing their Linux systems.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 638 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2022
Publisher: Packt Publishing Limited

The Linux kernel is the heart of one of the world's most reliable operating systems. However, debugging it can be a challenging task. Linux Kernel Debugging is a comprehensive guide to mastering advanced kernel debugging. This book covers various topics in depth, such as instrumentation-based debugging techniques (printk and the dynamic debug framework), and demonstrates how to use Kprobes. Memory-related bugs can be particularly frustrating, and two chapters are dedicated to debugging them. When the kernel throws an Oops, how do you interpret it to debug the underlying issue? We've got you covered. Concurrency is a complex topic by nature, so a chapter on lock debugging will help you understand data races, including using KCSAN to detect them. Some tricky issues, both debug- and performance-wise, require detailed kernel-level tracing; you'll learn to wield the powerful Ftrace and its front ends. You'll also discover how to handle kernel lockups, hangs, and the dreaded kernel panic, as well as leverage the venerable GDB tool within the kernel (KGDB), along with much more. By the end of this book, you will have a wide range of powerful kernel debugging tools and techniques at your disposal.

Key Features:

• Fully understand how to use a variety of kernel and module debugging tools and techniques using examples.


• Learn to expertly interpret a kernel Oops and identify underlying defect(s).


• Use easy-to-look up tables and clear explanations of kernel-level defects to make this complex topic easy.

Book Description:

The Linux kernel is at the very core of arguably the world's best production-quality OS. Debugging it, though, can be a complex endeavor.

Linux Kernel Debugging is a comprehensive guide to learning all about advanced kernel debugging. This book covers many areas in-depth, such as instrumentation-based debugging techniques (printk and the dynamic debug framework), and shows you how to use Kprobes. Memory-related bugs tend to be a nightmare – two chapters are packed with tools and techniques devoted to debugging them. When the kernel gifts you an Oops, how exactly do you interpret it to be able to debug the underlying issue? We've got you covered. Concurrency tends to be an inherently complex topic, so a chapter on lock debugging will help you learn precisely what data races are, including using KCSAN to detect them. Some thorny issues, both debug- and performance-wise, require detailed kernel-level tracing; you'll learn to wield the impressive power of Ftrace and its front ends. You'll also discover how to handle kernel lockups, hangs, and the dreaded kernel panic, as well as leverage the venerable GDB tool within the kernel (KGDB), along with much more.

By the end of this book, you will have at your disposal a wide range of powerful kernel debugging tools and techniques, along with a solid understanding of the Linux kernel and how to debug it effectively. Whether you're a seasoned Linux administrator or just starting your journey into kernel debugging, this book will be your invaluable resource.

Dimension: 93 x 75 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801075039