Features/Systemtap2

= Feature Name: Systemtap 2.0 =

Summary
A major new version of systemtap.

Owner

 * Name: Frank Ch. Eigler
 * Email: fche@redhat.com

Current status

 * Targeted release: Fedora 18
 * Last updated: 2012-02-15
 * Percentage of completion: 10%

Detailed Description
For this next major release of systemtap, the team is hoping to deliver an optional new backend that allows unprivileged users to instrument their programs, without any kernel module building or root privileges.

Benefit to Fedora
Reduction of security attack surface, by less reliance on setuid / kernel facilities. Increased process introspection capability. Higher performance process introspection.

Scope
Impact is limited to this package.

How To Test
The packaged testsuite should cover the general capabilities of the tool, to avoid regressions.

User Experience
User experience from prior versions should not change. Completely unprivileged users should become able to instrument their own programs without any kernel- or root-dependent machinations.

Dependencies
The [|DynInst] library needs to be packaged for Fedora (or perhaps bundled into systemtap).

Contingency Plan
If the pure-userspace work is not completed in time, the then-newest upstream systemtap can be issued for Fedora 18.

Documentation
TBD.

Release Notes
TBD.

Comments and Discussion

 * See Talk:Features/Systemtap2