1.Understanding x86 Architecture
Processor Architecture: Deep understanding of x86 CPU architecture, including registers, memory management, interrupt handling, and instruction sets.
Boot Process: Familiarity with how x86 systems boot, including BIOS/UEFI initialization, bootloader (GRUB) loading, and kernel startup.
2.Kernel Debugging and Analysis
Kernel Panics: Exp in diagnosing and resolving kernel panics, which are critical system failures requiring detailed analysis.
Debugging Tools: Proficiency in using advanced debugging tools specific to kernel-level development on x86 architectures, such as:
GDB (GNU Debugger): For interactive debugging of the kernel.
KGDB: Extension of GDB for kernel debugging, allowing remote debugging.
Crash Analysis Tools: Tools like crash and kdump for analyzing kernel crash dumps.
SystemTap or DTrace: Dynamic tracing tools for performance analysis and debugging.
Log Analysis: Ability to interpret kernel logs (dmesg), system logs, and debug output to pinpoint issues.
3.GRUB Bootloader
Configuration and Customization: Understanding and modifying GRUB configuration files (grub.cfg) to control boot parameters and troubleshooting boot-related issues.
Bootloader Internals: Knowledge of how GRUB interacts with hardware, loads the kernel, and passes control to it.
4.Linux Kernel Development
Device Drivers: Debugging and optimizing kernel device drivers for hardware interaction and stability.
Performance Tuning: Identifying and addressing performance bottlenecks within the kernel and associated drivers.
5.Scripting and Automation
Shell Scripting: Proficiency in scripting languages like Bash to automate debugging tasks, testing scenarios, and system monitoring.
Familiarity with build systems used in kernel development and debugging environments.
6.Security and Compliance
Security Best Practices: Understanding security implications in kernel and bootloader development, adhering to best practices for secure coding and configurations.
Compliance: Ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations related to software development and system security.
Required Skills and Experience:
Proficiency in C Programming: Since kernel development is primarily in C, strong programming skills are essential.
Debugging Expertise: Experience in complex systems, particularly hashtag#kernel-level issues like panics.
Linux System Admini: Understanding of Linuxinternals, system administration tasks, and command-line tools.
Version Control Systems: Proficiency in Git or similar version control systems for code management.
Analytical Thinking: Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze and dissect intricate technical problems.
Educational:
A degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering
Bachelor's degree