Hypervisors for Security and Robustness

Abstract

Public reporting bunten for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions. Marching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Sand comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. 12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE ABSTRACT (Maximum 200 words)This is the final report for the Hypervisors for Security and Robustness (Kernel Hypervisors) program. It contains a description of the kernel hypervisor approach that was developed on the program for selectively controlling COTS components to provide robustness and security. Using the concept of a loadable module, kernel hypervisors were implemented on a Linux kernel. These kernel hypervisors provide unbypassable security wrappers for application specific security requirements and can also be used to provide replication services. 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 firewall services for limiting possible compromises.This report also includes a summary of the results of the performance testing and composability analysis mat was done on lie program. It concludes with a discussion of lessons learned and open issues. SUBJECT TERMS AbstractThis is the final report for the Hypervisors for Security and Robustness (Kernel Hypervisors) program. It contains a description of the kernel hypervisor approach that was developed on the program for selectively controlling COTS components to provide robustness and security. Using the concept of a loadable module, kernel hypervisors were implemented on a Linux kernel. These kernel hypervisors provide unbypassable security wrappers for application specific security requirements and can also be used to provide replication services. 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 firewall services for limiting possible compromises.This report also includes a summary of the results of the performance testing and composability analysis that was done on the program. It concludes with a discussion of lessons learned and open issues.