GDB (+ pwndbg)

What is GDB (+ pwndbg)?

GDB is the GNU debugger; pwndbg/gef add exploit-dev UX.

Debug crashing binaries and study memory in CTF/lab exploit work.

Official website: GDB (+ pwndbg) · Documentation

When do you use it?

• You need Debug binaries to understand memory and program flow.
• You are following a CYNARKS lab or authorized engagement that calls for GDB (+ pwndbg).
• You already tried simpler checks and need this tool’s deeper capability.

Who uses it?

• Security practitioners
• Students in authorized labs
• Engineers validating their own systems

How do you use it? (typical flow)

1. Install GDB (+ pwndbg) using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
2. Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
3. Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
4. Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
5. Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).

Help & manual (like man / --help)

Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.

1. 1. Help

   gdb --help

2. 2. Man

   man gdb

1. Installation

2. Basic commands

1. 1. Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

   gdb ./vuln_lab_binary

   Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

2. 2. Show help

   gdb --help

   List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

3. 3. Short help

   gdb -h

   Alternate help flag when supported.

4. 4. List all options

   --help / -h

   List all options

Options / flags

5. Useful features

• Core workflow and interface
• Reading and interpreting output
• Key configuration options
• Integrating into a professional workflow

6. Practical examples

1. Example 1: Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

   gdb ./vuln_lab_binary

   Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

2. Example 2: Show help

   gdb --help

   List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

3. Example 3: Short help

   gdb -h

   Alternate help flag when supported.

4. Example 4: List all options

   --help / -h

   List all options

7. Important notes

• GDB (+ pwndbg) is used by professionals for legitimate defense, testing and research.
• Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
• Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.