Large Virtual Address Support - 52-bit - in ARM64 Kernel
Explore the intricacies of Large Virtual Address support (52-bit) in the ARM64 kernel in this informative conference talk from linux.conf.au 2021. Delve into the ARMv8.2 architecture extensions, focusing on Large Virtual Addressing (LVA) and Large Physical Addressing (LPA). Understand how the Linux kernel version 5.4 introduced 52-bit Virtual Address (VA) and Physical Address (PA) support for ARM64, and learn about the complexities users face when opting for VAs from a 52-bit space. Discover how the kernel memory layout changes, the impact on user-space applications providing debugging support, and the process for applications to utilize the expanded address space. Gain insights into translation table walks, user space issues, pain points, and various use cases, including containerization of applications. Explore hardware debugger vendors, major changes in the field, and opportunities for involvement in this evolving technology.