This paper describes an approach for selectively controlling COTS components to provide robustness and security. Using the concept of a loadable module, "kernel hypewisors" have been implemented on a Linux kernel. These kernel hypervisors provide unbypassable security wrappers for application speciJic security requirements and can be used to provide replication services as well.A framework has been developed based on a master kernel hypewisol; whose job is to coordinate installation and removal of individual client kernel hypervisors and to provide a means for management of these clients. The framework allows client kernel hypervisors to be stacked so that a variety of application specific policies can be implemented, each by means of its own kernel hypervisor The hypewisors run in the kernel, but since they are loadable modules, they do not require that the kernel be modiJied.Kernel hypervisors have a number of potential applications, including protecting user systems from malicious active content downloaded via a Web browser and wrapping servers and jirewall services for limiting possible compromises. I

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing this collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to

No abstract