Tag: random

KASLR(Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization)

Posted on by lechuck park

With a Claude
this image of KASLR (Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization):

  1. Top Section:
  • Shows the traditional approach where the OS uses a Fixed kernel base memory address
  • Memory addresses are consistently located in the same position
  1. Bottom Section:
  • Demonstrates the KASLR-applied approach
  • The OS uses Randomized kernel base memory addresses
  1. Right Section (Components of Kernel Base Address):
  • “Kernel Region Code”: Area for kernel code
  • “Kernel Stack”: Area for kernel stack
  • “Virtual Memory mapping Area (vmalloc)”: Area for virtual memory mapping
  • “Module Area”: Where kernel modules are loaded
  • “Specific Memory Region”: Other specific memory regions
  1. Booting Time:
  • This is when the base addresses for kernel code, data, heap, stack, etc. are determined

The main purpose of KASLR is to enhance security. By randomizing the kernel’s memory addresses, it makes it more difficult for attackers to predict specific memory locations, thus preventing buffer overflow attacks and other memory-based exploits.

The diagram effectively shows the contrast between:

  • The traditional fixed-address approach (using a wrench symbol)
  • The KASLR approach (using dice to represent randomization)

Both approaches connect to RAM, but KASLR adds an important security layer through address randomization.