GDB
The GNU debugger.
KaliParrotLinuxpassive
pkg: gdb
GDB dynamically debugs programs — breakpoints, memory/register inspection and execution control — essential for exploit dev (esp. with GEF/pwndbg).
Syntax
gdb {binary} → break / run / info
Example
gdb ./binary -ex "break main" -ex run
Loads the binary, sets a breakpoint at main and starts execution.
Options & flags
What each switch does. Toggle them in the builder below to assemble a command.
Command builder
Tick options (and fill any values) to build a ready-to-copy command.
gdb
Usage examples
gdb ./binary -ex "break main" -ex run
Break at main and run.
gdb -p 1234
Attach to a running process.
Advantages
- Standard dynamic debugger
- Scriptable; great with GEF/pwndbg
- Deep runtime visibility
Disadvantages
- Bare GDB UX is unfriendly
- CLI learning curve
- Source-level needs symbols
Tags
#debugger#exploit-dev
Official docs: GDB ↗
Related commands
Frequently asked questions
What is GDB used for?
GDB dynamically debugs programs — breakpoints, memory/register inspection and execution control — essential for exploit dev (esp. with GEF/pwndbg).
What is an example GDB command?
A common example is: gdb ./binary -ex "break main" -ex run — Loads the binary, sets a breakpoint at main and starts execution.
Is GDB part of Kali Linux?
Yes. GDB ships with Kali Linux (and Parrot OS). If missing, install it with: sudo apt install gdb.
What category of security tool is GDB?
GDB is a Reverse Engineering tool with a passive-risk profile when run against a live target.
Try recon tools live
Run real scans against a domain you control, stage by stage.