ReTux: A 64-bit Rust OS for ECE391 MP3

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/124815

Title: ReTux: A 64-bit Rust OS for ECE391 MP3
Author(s): Munshi, Panav
Issue Date: 2023-05-01
Keyword(s): security vulnerabilities, Rust (language),
Abstract: Programmer-managed dynamic memory and weak typing in C/C++ frequently lead to security vulnerabilities. According to Google, more than 70% of severe security bugs in Chrome were due to mismanaged memory resources in their C/C++ code. Rust is an upcoming language that provides bare-metal performance comparable to C/C++ while avoiding most of the language features that lead to vulnerabilities. Specifically, Rust offers a strong type-system and ownership model, which guarantees memory and thread safety - eliminating several classes of bugs at compile-time. Given that Rust is gaining traction in the industry, with Linux adding support for native OS components in Rust, exposing computing students to the language is highly desirable. This project aims to recreate the ECE391 MP3 OS Kernel in Rust, with support for system calls, an in-memory filesystem, VGA text mode, and other MP3 kernel features. This prototype can be used to teach Rust to students in the future. This exposure will be beneficial to students, as implementing a significant project in Rust teaches them how to write memory-safe code, thereby improving their programming aptitude and scopes for employment.
Type of Resource: text
Language: eng

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