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Virtualization

Updated Feb 26, 2017 ·

Overview​

Virtualization involves creating virtual instances of computing resources, such as servers, storage devices, or networks, to maximize resource utilization and flexibility.

Hypervisors​

Hypervisors are software or firmware that create and manage virtual machines (VMs).

  • Type-1 (Bare Metal)

    • Installed directly on the physical hardware.
    • Provides direct access to hardware resources.
    • Typically used in enterprise data centers and cloud environments.
    • Examples: VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, Xen, KVM.

  • Type-2 (Hosted)

    • Installed on top of an operating system.
    • Relies on the host OS for hardware access.
    • Often used for development, testing, and desktop virtualization.
    • Examples: Oracle VirtualBox, VMware Workstation, Parallels Desktop.

VM Vulnerabilities​

VM Escape​

VM escape involves exploiting vulnerabilities to break out of a virtual machine's isolation, allowing unauthorized access to the host system or other VMs.

  • Exploits vulnerabilities in virtualization software.
  • Can lead to data breaches and loss of integrity.

Example:

  • CVE-2018-3646: A vulnerability in Intel CPUs that allowed malicious code running in a VM to access memory outside its allocated space, potentially compromising the host system.

Mitigation:

  • Regularly update hypervisor software to patch known vulnerabilities.
  • Implement strict access controls and isolation techniques.

Privilege Escalation​

Privilege escalation occurs when users gain elevated privileges within a virtualized environment, granting unauthorized access to sensitive resources.

  • Exploits weaknesses in operating system or application configurations.
  • Can lead to unauthorized actions that compromise system security.
  • For more information, please see Privilege Escalation.

Example:

  • CVE-2019-14849: A vulnerability in the Linux Kernel that allowed users with lower privileges to escalate their privileges and gain root access within a VM.

Mitigation:

  • Apply operating system patches and security updates promptly.
  • Implement least privilege principles.
  • Regularly audit user permissions to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation.

Live VM Migration​

Live VM migration refers to the process of moving a VM from one host to another while it's still running, during which data can be intercepted.

  • Potentially exposes sensitive information to unauthorized entities.
  • Risks increase with insecure migration protocols or misconfigured networks.

Example:

  • Insecure VM migration protocols may expose sensitive data during live migrations.

Mitigation:

  • Encrypt data during VM migration to prevent interception.
  • Implement secure network configurations.
  • Restrict access to migration interfaces.

Resource Reuse​

Resource reuse involves exploiting leftover resources from previously used VMs, which can lead to unauthorized access or data leakage.

  • Residual data can be left in memory or storage after a VM is terminated.
  • Can lead to potential exploitation of sensitive information.

Example:

  • Data remnants in memory or storage from a terminated VM may be accessed by unauthorized users.

Mitigation:

  • Use secure deletion techniques to ensure that data remnants are properly erased.
  • Implement memory and disk scrubbing mechanisms to prevent residual data exploitation.
  • Regularly monitor and audit resource allocation to detect and mitigate resource reuse vulnerabilities.

Securing VMs​

Securing VMs are almost similar with how we secure physical servers.

  • Hypervisors needs to be regularlly updated, patched, and secured.
  • Limit the connections between VMs and the physical machines.
  • Minimize and remove unneeded features to reduce potential vulnerabilities.
  • Consider VM distribution across different servers.
  • Beware of VM Sprawl - Provisioning VMs without proper oversight.
  • Enable encryption of the file that hosts the VM.

VDI​

VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) allows users to access virtual desktops hosted on centralized servers, enabling remote work and centralized management.

  • Centralized management for easier updates and maintenance
  • Enhanced security as data is stored on central servers
  • Flexible access from multiple devices, improving mobility