Secure system for allowing the execution of authorized computer program code

Abstract

Systems and methods for selective authorization of code modules are provided. According to one embodiment, a whitelist containing cryptographic hash values of code modules that are approved for loading into memory of a computer system and execution on the computer system is maintained by a kernel mode driver of the computer system. At least a subset of the cryptographic hash values has been included within the whitelist based upon results of application of one or more behavior analysis techniques to a corresponding subset of code modules. The kernel mode driver monitors a set of events occurring within one or more of a file system accessible by the computer system and an operating system that manages resources of the computer system. The kernel mode driver causes a cryptographic hash value of a code module relating to an observed event of the set of events to be authenticated with reference to the whitelist. When the cryptographic hash value matches one of the cryptographic hash values of approved code modules within the whitelist, the code module is allowed to be loaded and executed within the computer system.