🔧 Firmware Security Testing

Methodology

1. 01

   Firmware Acquisition

   Obtain firmware via official update channels, OTA capture, or hardware extraction using JTAG/UART interfaces, flash chip readers, and memory dump techniques.

2. 02

   Static Analysis

   Unpack firmware using Binwalk, extract filesystems, identify sensitive files (hardcoded credentials, keys, configuration), and analyse binary components using Ghidra for vulnerability patterns.

3. 03

   Component Vulnerability Analysis

   Map extracted packages, libraries, and kernel versions against CVE databases and known exploit patterns to identify outdated or vulnerable components with public exploits.

4. 04

   Dynamic Analysis & Emulation

   Emulate firmware using QEMU where architecture permits; test running services for command injection, authentication bypass, exposed management interfaces, and remote code execution.

5. 05

   Hardware Interface Analysis

   Assess exposed debug interfaces (JTAG, UART, SPI, I2C) for unauthorised access; evaluate secure boot chain integrity and hardware-level attack resistance.

What You Get

• ✓ Firmware security assessment report with CVSS-rated findings
• ✓ Hardcoded credential and secret inventory
• ✓ Component vulnerability analysis (CVE mapping)
• ✓ Hardware interface analysis (JTAG/UART)
• ✓ Architecture recommendations and remediation guidance

Frequently Asked

What types of devices do you test firmware on?

We test IoT devices, embedded systems, industrial control systems (ICS/SCADA components), networking equipment (routers, firewalls, access points), and consumer electronics. We work with multiple chip architectures including ARM, MIPS, x86, RISC-V, and PowerPC.

What if we cannot share the physical device?

In many cases, firmware images can be provided directly for static analysis without physical device access. Where dynamic testing or hardware interface analysis is required, we can work with your team to arrange secure remote access or on-site testing. We also accept firmware images from official update servers.

What is a secure boot chain and why does it matter?

A secure boot chain is a series of cryptographically verified steps from hardware power-on through to application execution, where each stage validates the integrity and authenticity of the next using digital signatures. Weaknesses in the boot chain can allow persistent backdoors that survive firmware updates — making it one of the most critical security controls in embedded systems.