Proof-carrying Code

Proof-carrying Code

Proof-carrying code (PCC) is a software mechanism that allows a host system to verify properties about an application via a formal proof that accompanies the application's executable code. The host system can quickly verify the validity of the proof, and it can compare the conclusions of the proof to its own security policy to determine whether the application is safe to execute. This can be particularly useful in ensuring memory safety, i.e. preventing buffer overflows and other vulnerabilities common in some programming languages.

Proof-carrying code was originally described in 1996 by George Necula and Peter Lee.

Read more about Proof-carrying Code:  Packet Filter Example, See Also

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