A Guide to Kernel Exploitation: Attacking the Core

by Enrico Perla B.Sc. Computer Science University of Torino M.Sc. Computer Science Trinity College Dubl, Enrico Perla B.Sc. Computer Science University of Torino M.Sc. Computer Science Trinity College, Massimiliano Oldani

A Guide to Kernel Attacking the Core discusses the theoretical techniques and approaches needed to develop reliable and effective kernel-level exploits, and applies them to different operating systems, namely, UNIX derivatives, Mac OS X, and Windows. Concepts and tactics are presented categorically so that even when a specifically detailed vulnerability has been patched, the foundational information provided will help hackers in writing a newer, better attack; or help pen testers, auditors, and the like develop a more concrete design and defensive structure.

The book is organized into four parts. Part I introduces the kernel and sets out the theoretical basis on which to build the rest of the book. Part II focuses on different operating systems and describes exploits for them that target various bug classes. Part III on remote kernel exploitation analyzes the effects of the remote scenario and presents new techniques to target remote issues. It includes a step-by-step analysis of the development of a reliable, one-shot, remote exploit for a real vulnerabilitya bug affecting the SCTP subsystem found in the Linux kernel. Finally, Part IV wraps up the analysis on kernel exploitation and looks at what the future may hold.

Genres: Technology, Computer Science, Hackers

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Poonam Mishra · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a good book, but not the best source for kernel newbies. Sadly tutorials serve a better mean if you want to understand the details of Assembly used.