GSOC - Test Linux Emulation Project

["Jannabhatla, Sai Kasyap" <vjann3%uic.edu@localhost>]

Dear Stephen,
I hope you’re doing well. My name is Sai Kasyap Jannabhatla, and I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Computer Science at the University of Illinois at Chicago. I’m interested in working on the "Linux Emulation Testing" project as part of GSoC and wanted to reach out to share my understanding of the project and get your insights.
>From what I understand, NetBSD’s Linux emulation layer allows running Linux binaries, but it currently lacks dedicated test coverage. This project aims to integrate relevant tests into the NetBSD test suite, ensuring better validation of Linux emulation. Key steps involve:

  *   Identifying suitable tests, compiling them on Linux, and running them on NetBSD.
  *   Modifying or adding tests for Linux-specific APIs.
  *   Setting up a self-hosting cross-compilation environment.
  *   Fixing emulation issues uncovered by the tests.

I also came across the Linux Test Project (LTP), which provides a comprehensive suite of tests for Linux kernel features. I’d love to hear your thoughts on whether LTP could be leveraged for this project and what challenges you anticipate in integrating such tests into NetBSD.
Additionally, I’d appreciate any guidance on:

  *   Any existing work or past discussions on Linux emulation testing in NetBSD.
  *   Best practices for debugging failing tests in the compat_linux layer.
  *   Where to start exploring the NetBSD test framework to integrate these tests effectively.

Looking forward to your insights and any suggestions you might have on how to proceed.
Best regards,
Sai Kasyap Jannabhatla