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Technical blog articles written by our embedded software experts on embedded Linux, automated testing, cybersecurity, IoT and more.

Securing embedded devices: navigating the implications of the EU Cyber Resilience Act

The advent of embedded devices has ushered in remarkable advancements across industries, yet with connectivity comes a heightened susceptibility to cybersecurity threats. As regulatory bodies worldwide respond to this pressing concern, the European Union is at the forefront with the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), aimed at fortifying the security of embedded devices. While the CRA awaits finalization by the European Commission, its proposed directives suggest a significant overhaul in cybersecurity requirements for European equipment manufacturers. Let's delve into the potential implications of the CRA and the additional measures manufacturers must consider to secure their embedded devices and ensure compliance.

The Embedded Kit in Embedded Executive podcast by Embedded Computing Design - 2024

Embedded Linux development challenges may not be what you think – Embedded Executive Podcast

Embedded systems have become ubiquitous in our modern world, powering everything from smart appliances to industrial machinery. At the heart of many of these systems lies Linux, the open-source operating system renowned for its flexibility and customization options. However, navigating the intricacies of embedded Linux can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with its nuances.

At The Embedded Kit, we’ve conducted a study and gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing OEMs in the embedded Linux landscape. Discover the key takeaways from the study Pierre Gal shared with Rich Nass on the Embedded Executive podcast.

The Embedded Kit x SimpleSwitch - From Avnet Embedded SMARC module evaluation to production

Tria SimpleSwitch x The Embedded Kit for SMARC modules

When evaluating a system on module for your next generation product, the focus naturally shifts towards module performance and its ability to run your business applications.
However, the journey takes a different turn once hardware selection is made and the path to production begins. It becomes imperative to customize your system to ensure its security. In this article, we delve into two complementary solutions that facilitate Tria (ex Avnet Embedded) SMARC module evaluation and accelerate the transition to production: SimpleSwitch and The Embedded Kit.

Example of a boot sequence for a system running on an iMX8

Boot sequence in ARM-based hardware architectures

When it comes to understanding the boot sequence in ARM-based hardware architectures, it's important to note that ARM-based architectures are not as standardized as their Intel counterparts, with each manufacturer adding their own unique touch. But first, let’s get back to what exactly the boot sequence is.

Linux distribution comparison: Debian, Ubuntu Core, Windriver, Welma Yocto Linux

Choosing the right software for your hardware is crucial for a strong and secure product. In this blog post, we'll compare popular embedded Linux options like Windriver, Ubuntu Core, Welma Yocto Linux, Debian, or even create your own custom distribution independently or with a service provider. Join us to find the best Linux distro for your embedded system.

Off-the-shelf vs custom embedded Linux distributions - The Embedded Kit

Off-the-shelf vs custom embedded Linux distributions comparison

Selecting the appropriate Linux distribution for initiating your embedded system can be a challenging decision. Do you opt for a pre-configured Debian, potentially facing limitations down the road? Alternatively, do you leverage the Yocto Project to craft a custom Linux distribution, affording complete flexibility although with a high time investment? Join us in a thorough exploration of the advantages and drawbacks associated with off-the-shelf versus custom embedded Linux distributions to determine the optimal choice for your systems.

The Embedded Kit - Reference DevOps platform for embdded Linux maintenance - CVE Scan and Pluma automated testing

The ABCs of maintenance activities for embedded Linux systems

The maintenance process in software development is a dynamic and crucial phase that extends beyond the initial release of a product. It involves a meticulous strategy to ensure the ongoing stability, security, and performance of the software. Long-Term Support (LTS) versions, periodic updates, and the management of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) are integral components of this process.

Automated testing for embedded Linux system quality - The Embedded Kit

Ensuring embedded Linux system quality with automated testing

Embedded Linux systems serve as the backbone for a myriad of applications, ranging from IoT devices to industrial automation. The complexity of these systems, often comprising intricate combinations of operating systems, kernels, and drivers, makes automated testing a useful and essential way to ensure the robustness and reliability of these systems.

Secure boot mechanism for Linux-based devices

How to enable secure boot in embedded systems?

Secure boot is a critical security mechanism designed to protect embedded systems against various threats. It serves as a safeguard, guaranteeing that your device exclusively runs the code it was designed to run.