Address Space Layout Randomization

Definitions

1. Address Space Layout Randomization is a memory-hardening technique that randomizes where code, stacks, heaps, and libraries are loaded at runtime. Security teams use it to enforce trust, reduce exposure, improve detection, or standardize secure operations in production environments. Its value depends on correct configuration, lifecycle management, and surrounding controls, because weak defaults, poor integration, or missing visibility can create gaps that attackers exploit.

   In plain English: Address Space Layout Randomization is a security concept or control that helps organizations protect systems, manage trust, and notice suspicious behavior before damage spreads.

   Example: "After the review, the security team rolled out Address Space Layout Randomization in the affected environment, documented the operating procedure, and verified through logs and test cases that the control reduced exposure without breaking normal administrative or user workflows."

Related Terms

• Guard Page
• Mandatory Access Control
• Memory Corruption
• Memory Forensics
• Memory Safety
• Stack Canary
• Binary Hardening
• CFI
• Control Flow Guard
• Control Flow Integrity
• Keychain
• Memory Protection