Coding Bugs Leading to Security Vulnerabilities in Windows Drivers

Pankaj Bhandula

Abstract: Windows device drivers operate at the core of the operating system with high privileges, making any security flaws in their code potentially devastating. This article provides an academic overview of how common coding bugs in Windows drivers can lead to serious security vulnerabilities. We explain the architecture and role of Windows drivers ? particularly their kernel - level privileges ? and examine typical programming errors such as buffer overflows, use of uninitialized memory, improper input validation, race conditions, and access control mistakes. Through two real - world case studies, we illustrate how these bugs have been exploited in practice. We then discuss tools and techniques for identifying driver vulnerabilities, including fuzz testing, symbolic execution, static analysis, and Microsoft?s specialized driver verification tools. Finally, we recommend secure development practices for driver developers to mitigate these issues. Annotated code snippets are provided to demonstrate insecure vs. secure coding practices, and an architectural diagram illustrates the potential impact of a malicious driver running with kernel - mode access.

Keywords: Windows Kernel, Device Drivers, Security Vulnerabilities, Buffer Overflow, Privilege Escalation, Fuzzing, Static Driver Verifier, BYOVD Attacks

How to Cite?: Pankaj Bhandula, "Coding Bugs Leading to Security Vulnerabilities in Windows Drivers", Volume 14 Issue 4, April 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 792-795, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25407125626, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25407125626