The CodeSurfer software understanding platform

Abstract

CodeSurfer is a tool that provides a wide range of program understanding capabilities by exposing the results of a static-semantic analysis to the user in novel and interesting ways. The tool performs a number of whole-program analyses, including pointer analysis, and creates a system dependence graph for the program. The user can browse these dependences through the GUI in a manner akin to surfing the Web. An open architecture fosters the development of plug-ins that can extend the basic functionality. These include tools for reasoning about the paths through the program, and for software assurance.