For those managing Linux environments, the extended Berkeley Packet Filter, or eBPF, offers a transformative approach to application performance management and security. However, the question arises: what about Windows users? Can they leverage eBPF as well?
The current answer is a cautious “sort of.” While Windows has introduced support for eBPF, it comes with notable limitations that users should consider.
What Is eBPF?
The extended Berkeley Packet Filter (eBPF) is a groundbreaking technology that allows for the execution of custom code directly in “kernel space.” This integration means that the code operates as part of the operating system, delivering exceptional efficiency. Programs executed via eBPF are validated and run in sandboxed environments, significantly reducing potential security and stability risks.
With eBPF, system administrators can monitor network traffic and observe application performance metrics through the kernel, all while avoiding the overhead associated with traditional monitoring solutions. Additionally, security teams can utilize eBPF to detect and respond to malicious activities effectively.
One of the standout features of eBPF is its ability to operate without the need for kernel code recompilation or the use of kernel modules, which can introduce security vulnerabilities if flawed. Instead, eBPF allows users to load custom code into the kernel, execute it, and monitor the results seamlessly.
Does eBPF Work on Windows?
Initially, eBPF was exclusive to Linux. However, in 2021, Microsoft initiated a project to bring eBPF capabilities to Windows. The aim of this endeavor is to enable the use of existing eBPF tools and libraries from Linux within Windows environments. This is achieved through a Windows eBPF interpreter that executes eBPF code in the Windows kernel, along with wrappers for Windows kernel APIs that facilitate data collection similar to that on Linux.
This setup theoretically allows for the adaptation of eBPF programs designed for Linux to be compiled and executed on Windows. Importantly, eBPF for Windows is not a mere fork of its Linux counterpart; rather, it strives to maintain consistency in eBPF tooling across both operating systems, akin to the functionality provided by the Windows Subsystem for Linux.
How to Install eBPF for Windows
To install eBPF on a Windows PC or server, it is necessary to have an operating system with a kernel debugger attached or one that operates in test-signing mode. A straightforward method to achieve this is by setting up a virtual machine using Microsoft Hyper-V and executing the following command within the VM to enable test-signing mode:
bcdedit.exe -set TESTSIGNING ON
After running the command, a reboot of the VM is required for the changes to take effect. For further guidance, users can refer to the eBPF for Windows documentation. Following this, an MSI installer file for eBPF can be downloaded from GitHub. Executing this file and following the prompts will complete the installation process, allowing users to run eBPF programs within the Windows shell.
Limitations of eBPF for Windows
While eBPF is operational on Windows, it faces several challenges:
- eBPF for Windows necessitates kernel debuggers or test-signing mode, making it impractical for production systems that typically do not meet these requirements.
- The data collection “hooks” utilized by eBPF programs differ between Windows and Linux, meaning that not all Linux eBPF programs will function on Windows.
- The availability and completeness of eBPF libraries and APIs for Windows are inconsistent, which may result in some programs being non-functional.
In essence, Windows eBPF is still a work in progress, suitable for experimentation but not yet ready for real-world deployment.
When Will eBPF for Windows Be Released?
Currently, Windows eBPF is available for experimentation, but a timeline for a production-ready version remains uncertain. Microsoft has not provided updates regarding the development schedule since the project’s announcement three years ago.
While development activity on GitHub for Windows eBPF has been relatively consistent, the pace appears to have slowed in the past year. Therefore, for those eager to implement eBPF in a production environment on Windows, patience is advisable, as it may take years before such capabilities are fully realized. In the meantime, users can explore eBPF on Windows systems for experimental purposes.
