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Enable page allocator clearing in GRUB kernel parameters

grub-page-alloc-shuffle · RHEL ≥ 8 · 1 impl

Description

The init_on_alloc=1 kernel parameter must be set to clear memory pages when they are allocated. This prevents information disclosure from previously used memory.

Rationale

When memory pages are reused without being cleared, sensitive data from previous use may be accessible. Clearing pages on allocation prevents use-after-free information leaks.

Check → Remediate

Checkgrub_parameter
key:
init_on_alloc
expected:
1
Remediategrub_parameter_set
key:
init_on_alloc
value:
1

Framework references

NIST 800-53

CM-6SC-4

Live verification

rhel8:checkrhel9:check
#grub#kernel#memory#security#boot