First and foremost, I would like to present a very genuine thank you to my mother, Michelle, to whom I have dedicated this book. It all started with her buying me my first computer, followed by a plethora of books, ranging from Unix programming to kernel internals and network security. At one point in my life, I thought I was done with computers forever, but about 5 years later, when I wanted to reignite my passion, I realized that I had thrown my books away! I then found that my mother had secretly saved them for me, waiting for the day I would return to them. Thank you mom, you are wonderful, and I love you.
I would also be very remiss not to acknowledge the most important woman in my life today, who is my twin flame and mother of two of my children. There is no doubt that I would not be where I am in my life and career without you. They say that behind every great man is an even greater woman. This old adage is very true. Thank you Marilyn for bringing immense joy and adventure into my life. I love you.
My father, Brian O'Neill, is a huge inspiration in my life and has taught me so many things about being a man, a father, and a friend. I love you Dad and I will always cherish our philosophical and spiritual connection.
Michael and Jade, thank you both for being such unique and wonderful souls. I love you both.
Lastly, I thank all three of my children: Mick, Jayden, and Jolene. One day, perhaps, you will read this book and know that your old man knows a thing or two about computers, but also that I will always put you guys first in my life. You are all three amazing beings and have imbued my life with such deep meaning and love.
Silvio Cesare is a legendary name in the computer security industry due to his highly innovative and groundbreaking research into many areas, beginning with ELF viruses, and breakthroughs in kernel vulnerability analysis. Thank you Silvio for your mentoring and friendship. I have learned more from you than from any other person in our industry.
Baron Oldenburg was an instrumental part of this book. On several occasions, I nearly gave up due to the time and energy drained, but Baron offered to help with the initial editing and putting the text into the proper format. This took a huge burden off the development process and made this book possible. Thank you Baron! You are a true friend.
Lorne Schell is a true Renaissance man—software engineer, musician, and artist. He was the brilliant hand behind the artwork on the cover of this book. How amazingly well does a Vitruvian Elf fit the description of this book artistically? Thank you Lorne. I am very grateful for your talent and the time you spent on this.
Chad Thunberg, my boss at Leviathan Security Group, was instrumental in making sure that I got the resources and the encouragement necessary to complete this book. Thank you.
All the guys at #bitlackeys on EFnet have my gratitude for their friendship and support.