Preparing The Next Release of REMnux Distro

Update: REMnux v3 is out!

I’m preparing the next release of the REMnux Linux distribution. REMnux is a lightweight Linux distribution for assisting malware analysts in reverse-engineering malicious software. To date, the distro has been downloaded about 20,000 times in its live CD and virtual appliance forms.

I expect the new REMnux release (version 3) to incorporate the following major changes, while remaining mostly backwards-compatible with prior releases:

  • Based on the latest version of Ubuntu (11.10)
  • Use a more full-featured X desktop environment (LXDE instead of Enlightenment)
  • Use a more common IRC client (EPIC instead of Irssi)
  • Incorporate the latest version of Volatility memory analysis software and plugins (2.0 instead of 1.4 RC 1)
  • I’m still deciding whether to include the Wine Windows emulator at the “cost” of about 400MB)
  • Include several additional malware analysis tools that I’ve been experimenting with

If you’d like to assist with the REMnux v3 effort, please get in touch with me. Here’s where I need help:

  • Tell me if you’d like to test a beta release of REMnux v3 when it becomes available
  • Share with me your recommendations for improving REMnux, if you’re a current user of this distro
  • Let me know if you’d like to fine-tune the user interface of the new release, so it’s more user-friendly
  • Drop me a note if you’d like to suggest that I include a tool related to malware analysis that isn’t already in REMnux

You can get in touch with me by email or Twitter.

— Lenny Zeltser

Updated November 9, 2011
Lenny Zeltser

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About the Author

I design security solutions and shepherd them to a sustainable state. I used to be hands-on in many areas of cybersecurity and IT. Now I focus on strategy and leadership, treating security as an enabler that helps people and companies achieve their goals. As the CISO of Axonius, I lead the security program to earn customers' trust and fuel the company's growth. Earlier, I built security products and services. I'm also a Faculty Fellow at SANS Institute, where I help professionals develop malware analysis skills.

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