Does Making the Kernel Harder Make Making the Kernel Harder?

Explore the impact of the Linux Kernel Hardening Project in this 46-minute conference talk from linux.conf.au. Delve into the subtle benefits of kernel hardening techniques, such as the introduction of refcount_t and the removal of variable length arrays. Gain insights from Casey Schaufler, a veteran kernel developer, as he explains the significant value these changes bring to kernel security. Examine the costs associated with kernel hardening, including development overhead, code churn, and performance implications. Learn about various hardening methods, including strong typing, string functions, stack protection, and randomization. Evaluate the overall effectiveness of these measures and their impact on kernel development complexity.