SURGEON: A Re-Hosting Technique for Embedded Firmware Analysis

This technical report introduces SURGEON, a novel re-hosting technique designed for the dynamic analysis of embedded firmware. The document details the challenges associated with analyzing microcontroller-based firmware, particularly the limitations posed by the lack of source code and the necessity for custom hardware or extensive software stacks. SURGEON employs a method called transplantation, which transforms binary firmware into a Linux user space process that can be executed on high-performance systems. This approach enhances performance by executing at native speeds and allows for the application of existing dynamic analysis tools without significant modifications. The report outlines the key features of SURGEON, including its flexibility, scalability, and the ability to perform precise peripheral emulation. Additionally, it discusses the importance of dynamic analysis techniques in identifying vulnerabilities in embedded systems, which are increasingly targeted by malicious actors. The document concludes by emphasizing the significance of SURGEON in improving the efficiency of firmware analysis.