Writing a Linux Debugger (2017)
a year ago
- #programming
- #linux
- #debugging
- Debuggers are essential tools for developers, yet there's limited information on how they work or how to write one.
- This tutorial series aims to explain debugger mechanics and guide through writing a Linux debugger, covering features like execution control, breakpoints, memory access, and stepping.
- The debugger will support C and C++ programs that output standard DWARF debug information, focusing on functionality over robust error handling.
- Setup involves dependencies like Linenoise for command-line input and libelfin for parsing debug information, with instructions for installation and building.
- The debugger launches the debugee program using fork/exec, utilizing ptrace for process control and observation.
- A debugger loop listens for user input, supporting commands similar to gdb and lldb, with initial support for continuing execution.
- Future parts will expand on setting breakpoints, handling registers and memory, and more advanced debugging features.