Linux Kernel Development, Third Edition

18. Debugging

One factor that differentiates kernel development from user-space development is the hardship associated with debugging. It is difficult, relative to user-space, to debug the kernel. To complicate the matter, the stakes are much higher. A fault in the kernel can bring down the whole system.

Success in debugging the kernel—and ultimately, success in kernel development as a whole—is largely a function of your experience and understanding of the operating system. Sure, looks and charm help, too, but to successfully debug kernel issues, you need to understand the kernel. This chapter looks at approaches to debugging the kernel.

Getting Started

Kernel debugging is often a long, head-scratching endeavor. Some bugs have perplexed the ...