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We are looking for an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to build a Netfilter-inspired mini system consisting of a kernel module and a userspace CLI tool. This project is intended for educational and evaluation purposes, but should be implemented with production-quality structure, clean code, and solid documentation. What You'll Build 1. Kernel Module (LKM) • Register/unregister with the kernel (init / exit) • Create a character device (e.g. /dev/nfdev) • Implement multiple ioctl commands for rule management • Store and manage filtering rules inside the kernel • Simulate packet filtering flow: • Intercept (hook or equivalent) • Match rules (IP, port, protocol) • Apply action: ACCEPT / DROP / INJECT (mock acceptable) • Proper handling of: • copy_to_user / copy_from_user • Concurrency (locking) • Memory management • Clean unload (no leaks, no crashes) 2. Userspace CLI Tool • Communicate with /dev/nfdev via open, ioctl, close • Menu-based interface: • Add rule • Remove rule • List rules • Save rules to file ([login to view URL]) • Load rules from file • Input validation and error handling • Clean serialization/deserialization of rules Documentation (Required) • Explanation of module lifecycle (init/exit, registration) • Full ioctl documentation: • Command numbers • Direction macros (_IO, _IOR, _IOW, _IOWR) • Struct layouts • Kernel-side behavior • Packet flow explanation: Packet → Hook → Rule Match → Action • Clear README with build/run/test steps Deliverables • Kernel module source code • Userspace CLI tool • Makefiles for both components • Sample [login to view URL] • Documentation (README + ioctl reference) • Demo flow: Add rule → list rules → verify drop → remove rule → save/load Nice to Have (Bonus) • Real Netfilter hook (nf_hook_ops) • Failure modes documentation: invalid ioctl size, concurrent access issues, module unload problems, invalid inputs (IP/port/interface) • Simple test setup (network namespace or traffic generation) • Brief comparison with real Netfilter / nftables Requirements • Strong experience with: Linux Kernel Modules (LKM), character device drivers, ioctl interface design • Solid C programming skills • Understanding of: kernel ↔ userspace communication, synchronization in kernel space • Bonus: Netfilter experience Budget & Rate • Hourly: $30/hr
Project ID: 40672377
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Hi, I’m an experienced Linux/C developer with strong knowledge of kernel modules, character devices, ioctl interfaces, synchronization, and kernel–userspace communication. I can build the LKM and CLI with clean, production-quality code, proper locking/memory handling, complete documentation, and testing. I can also implement the optional Netfilter hook and provide a clear demo covering rule creation, matching, DROP/ACCEPT actions, persistence, and load/unload behavior. I’m ready to start and can work within your $30/hr budget.
$30 USD in 40 days
0.0
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32 freelancers are bidding on average $27 USD/hour for this job

Hi, I am a software engineer with over 16 years of experience building low-level C systems, Linux components, device interfaces, and reliable kernel-to-userspace communication. I can develop this as a clean, production-structured mini filtering system, with careful attention to ioctl ABI design, locking, memory ownership, validation, and safe module unloading. I would first define the shared rule structures and ioctl contract, then implement the character device and in-kernel rule store, followed by the CLI, persistence, and filtering flow. I can include a real Netfilter hook where the target kernel supports it, plus namespace-based tests, sample rules, Makefiles, and clear lifecycle, packet-flow, ioctl, failure-mode, and build documentation. Which Linux distribution and kernel version should be the primary build and test target? I would be glad to discuss the details and agree on milestones for the module, CLI, testing, and documentation.
$25 USD in 30 days
7.6
7.6

Hello! @Project@ I understand you need an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to build a Netfilter-inspired mini system, including kernel module and userspace CLI. @Why I'm a good fit@ I bring extensive expertise in Linux Kernel Modules (LKM), C programming, and character device drivers. With many years of experience in kernel ↔ userspace communication, I have developed similar packet filtering systems, ensuring clean, production-quality code with proper memory and concurrency handling. I'm ready to start working immediately. Thanks!
$25 USD in 36 days
5.2
5.2

With over [insert years of experience here], I'm adept at handling Linux Kernel Modules (LKM), which aligns perfectly with your project requirements. During my tenure, I've developed a range of reliable low-level systems, including character device drivers, that exhibit strong C programming skills. Understanding kernel ↔ userspace communication and synchronization in kernel space are bread and butter to me; you can trust my expertise to handle these intricacies in your Netfilter Kernel Module Development impeccably. I believe in delivering nothing short of excellence, just as you demand for this educational project with serious undertones. Thus, not only will I create the robust LKM and efficient CLI tool exactly as specified, but I'll also provide thorough documentation elucidating every aspect of the module lifecycle, packet flow, system commands, and everything else you've requested. Where others struggle, I thrive by combining technical prowess with top-notch communication and project management skills. I value long-term relationships and this is what drives me to consistently deliver high-impact digital products designed for lasting success. Let me bring my transformational abilities into your world by crafting an outstanding Netfilter-inspired mini system that not just meets the educational and evaluation purposes but goes beyond to provide valuable insights through my deep-dive documentation
$15 USD in 40 days
5.4
5.4

Hi there, Your kernel module and /dev/nfdev ioctl flow need a clean, production-quality implementation with safe rule handling. I have strong expertise in Software Architecture, Debugging, and Software Development, and I’ll structure the LKM lifecycle, character device, ioctl commands, rule storage, locking, and copy_to_user/copy_from_user paths carefully. I’ll also build the userspace CLI for add/list/remove/save/load, plus documentation that explains the packet → hook → rule match → action flow and the failure modes clearly. Best regards, Ian
$20 USD in 33 days
4.8
4.8

The critical part is defining a stable kernel/userspace contract before implementing rule storage, because unsafe ioctl layouts, weak validation, or incorrect teardown can turn an educational module into a kernel crash. My production background includes Linux-based systems, C-adjacent systems work, concurrency, API contracts, and testable software architecture. I would define shared fixed-width rule structures and versioned ioctl commands first, then build the character device lifecycle, bounded rule store, locking strategy, copy_to_user/copy_from_user validation, and clean rollback paths for partial initialization failures. The CLI will share the public header, validate IPs, ports, protocols, actions, and file input, and serialize rules deterministically. Testing will cover invalid command numbers and sizes, concurrent readers/writers, allocation failures, repeated load/unload, and save/load parity. If the real hook is included, matching will run through nf_hook_ops with clear ownership and minimal work in the packet path; INJECT can remain explicitly mocked. Documentation will map every ioctl and packet-flow stage to the implementation. Which kernel version and distribution must be supported, and is a real Netfilter hook required for acceptance?
$20 USD in 40 days
4.7
4.7

Hi, I am a professional web developer and I can do this project "Netfilter Kernel Module Development", I have 5 years of experience in web development. I have done many projects like this. I can do this job for you. I can start right now. Please contact me. Thanks
$15 USD in 2 days
4.2
4.2

With my 11+ years of experience in software development, I have acquired robust skills that align perfectly with your project requirements. I am well-versed in Linux Kernel Modules (LKM) and character device drivers, along with an impeccable command over C programming. Additionally, I possess a deep understanding of kernel <-> userspace communication and synchronization in the kernel space. Not to mention, my bonus proficiency in Netfilter that can provide valuable insights on the evaluations of your project. Moreover, quality delivered is my virtue - be it in production-ready structured code or thorough documentation. Clear explanation of the module lifecycle to the implementation details of ioctl commands, I will ensure no stone remains unturned. My stronghold on memory management and concurrency guarantees clean unloads without any leaks or crashes. And certainly, your required functionality to store and manage filtering rules inside the kernel with proper handling of copy_to_user / copy_from_user will be seamlessly executed. Lastly, staying reachable after delivery is indispensable for effective fine-tuning and enhancements, and I'm fully committed to provide all-round support. In a nutshell, hiring me means getting an experienced professional who not just meets but exceeds expectations when it comes to delivering clean code, a solid architecture design, flawless implementation and a system that actually works amidst real data and user scenarios.
$15 USD in 40 days
3.7
3.7

You need a kernel-space/user-space Netfilter-style project that is safe to load, easy to test, and fully documented—not a demo that crashes on unload. I would structure it around a small LKM, a versioned ioctl interface, and a separate CLI with strict input validation and reproducible build steps. The implementation should define shared rule structs and command IDs in one header, protect the rule store with appropriate locking, validate every user-space copy and ioctl size, and ensure module exit frees all allocations and unregisters devices cleanly. I would also include a controlled test path using network namespaces or generated traffic, plus documentation showing the full rule lifecycle and failure cases. Before committing to scope, I would confirm the target kernel version, whether a real nf_hook_ops hook is mandatory, and the exact expected behaviour for the mock INJECT action.
$15 USD in 40 days
3.7
3.7

Hi there! I appreciate that you're building this as an educational project but expecting production-quality code—that constraint actually shapes better decisions around error handling, resource cleanup, and testability than many commercial kernel work I've seen. I've spent the last few years working with character device drivers and ioctl interfaces, including a packet filtering system that required careful synchronization around rule updates. The packet flow you've described (intercept, match, action) is straightforward to implement, but the real work is usually in preventing race conditions during concurrent rule modifications and ensuring clean module unload without leaks or dangling references. One thing worth clarifying early: are you planning to use actual Netfilter hooks with nf_hook_ops, or would a simpler simulation (like a proc entry that processes mock packets) be acceptable? That decision affects the module's complexity, testing approach, and how much Netfilter-specific knowledge the user needs to verify it's working correctly. I'd be happy to discuss the approach and timeline with you. kind regards, Corné
$15 USD in 40 days
3.6
3.6

If the module is unloaded while a user thread is still inside an ioctl, the kernel can dereference a freed pointer. My code will add a reference count around each ioctl and check it in the exit routine to guarantee safe unload. A per‑rule mutex will protect the rule list during add, delete, and match operations. Many developers forget that copytouser can fail silently if the user buffer is not page‑aligned, leading to silent data loss. I’ll validate all ioctl payload sizes and return proper error codes before touching kernel memory. Ready to start immediately and get the mini Netfilter system compiling and documented.
$20 USD in 40 days
2.4
2.4

Hello, As an experienced and versatile technical expert, I am confident in my ability to provide a comprehensive solution to your Netfilter Kernel Module Development project. My expertise in Linux Kernel Modules, character device drivers, and design of ioctl interfaces aligns perfectly with your requirements. I possess a strong background in C programming and have an in-depth understanding of kernel ↔ userspace communication, as well as effective synchronization in the kernel space - all vital skills for this project. What sets me apart from the competition is my ability to go beyond just technical execution and deliver a polished final product that is also well-documented. With my background in Software Development and Documentation, I can not only develop the kernel module and userspace CLI tool but also provide clear explanations of the module lifecycle, full ioctl documentation, packet flow explanation, and build/run/test steps in a comprehensive README. These essential components will serve your educational and evaluation purposes while maintaining production-quality structure. Furthermore, while not explicitly stated as required, I actually have significant Netfilter experience. This understanding of Netfilter adds an extra level of expertise to my approach - enabling me to create real Netfilter hooks (nf_hook_ops) if desired. I am even prepared to document failure modes, tackle possible concurrent access issues, issues durin Thanks!
$50 USD in 33 days
0.0
0.0

Hi We are available to take this on and get your Netfilter-inspired mini system working perfectly. The main issue with LKM development is proper ioctl structures, concurrency locking, and safe memory copying. Are you planning a real nf_hook_ops implementation or a simulated hook? We recently built a similar kernel module for a networking firm needing a character device interface and custom ioctl rule management. We implemented LKM init/exit routines, registered /dev/nfdev, and handled copy_to_user and copy_from_user safely with concurrency locking. We also built a clean userspace CLI tool with a menu-based interface to add, remove, list, save, and load rules, ensuring clean memory unloading without crashes and full documentation. We are eager to discuss the project further. Reach out to initiate a conversation! Best regards, Quantum Code Solutions
$25 USD in 40 days
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Pitch: With over [X] years of experience as a Full Stack and Mobile App Developer, I bring a unique and valuable skill set to the table for this kernel module development project. I have a strong background in C programming and an extensive understanding of Linux Kernel Modules (LKM), character device drivers, and specifically, ioctl interface design. This knowledge is critical for developing the netfilter-inspired mini system you're seeking. Another key aspect of my expertise that aligns nicely with this project is my understanding of kernel <-> userspace communication and synchronization in kernel space. This will enable me to ensure smooth operation and proper coordination between the kernel module and the CLI tool that we'll be creating. Furthermore, I have a solid penchant for clean coding practices, documentation, and have ample experience building production-quality systems just as you envision. My experience extends to handling memory management, concurrency issues, and implementing error handling mechanisms, all of which are vital for high-quality development. Finally, I appreciate the educational aspect of this project and I'm excited to craft comprehensive documentation for future learners.
$20 USD in 40 days
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Hi, I can build the complete Linux kernel module and userspace CLI with clean C code, ioctl-based rule management, proper kernel/user-space memory handling, synchronization, and safe module unloading. I’ll also provide the Makefiles, sample rules file, README, ioctl documentation, testing/demo flow, and clear explanations of the packet filtering process. I can also include a real Netfilter hook and network-namespace testing if required. I’m comfortable with Linux kernel development and can work at the **$30/hr** rate.
$15 USD in 40 days
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Hi there Which Linux kernel version and distribution should the module target for build and testing? Do you want a real Netfilter hook using nf_hook_ops in the first version, or should INJECT remain mocked while ACCEPT and DROP work against real traffic? I can build the LKM in C with the character device, ioctl rule management, safe user memory handling, locking, cleanup, and packet matching for IP, port, and protocol. I can also build the userspace CLI, rules file import and export, Makefiles, namespace based tests, and clear documentation for ioctl commands, packet flow, failure cases, and module lifecycle. I would be happy to discuss the target kernel environment and begin with the ioctl and rule structure. Best Kittipong
$20 USD in 40 days
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Can I help you? I have been researched the Linux Kernal Codebase from Universtiy. I believe my experience and skills will be benificial for your project. Please ping me. THanks, Hector
$30 USD in 40 days
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Hello, We’re genuinely interested in developing your Netfilter-inspired mini system and can build it with a clean, production-quality structure while keeping the educational and evaluation objectives in focus. We understand the project requires a Linux Kernel Module with character device and ioctl-based rule management, simulated packet filtering with ACCEPT/DROP/INJECT actions, along with a userspace CLI for managing, saving, and loading rules. **Why Choose Karmakoders:** * Strong C and Linux-based development expertise * Focus on clean kernel/userspace communication and ioctl design * Careful handling of concurrency, memory management, and error cases * Structured documentation covering lifecycle, ioctl commands, and packet flow * Clear testing, debugging, and communication throughout development We can also cover the required Makefiles, sample configuration, README, ioctl reference, and demonstration flow, with the Netfilter hook and testing setup considered where applicable. Can we connect on a quick call to discuss the project in detail and take the next steps? Best Regards, Team Karmakoders
$16 USD in 40 days
0.0
0.0

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