elf-inspection

Name: elf-inspection
Availability: InStock
Author: chessMan

Analyzes ELF binaries using readelf, objdump, nm, and ldd.

159|20|Updated Feb 20, 2026

Search Tags:#debugging #dependencies #linux #symbols #binary analysis #elf

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/mohitmishra786/low-level-dev-skills --skill elf-inspection

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: elf-inspection
Source: https://github.com/mohitmishra786/low-level-dev-skills/tree/main/skills/binaries/elf-inspection
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/mohitmishra786/low-level-dev-skills --skill elf-inspection

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you understand the internal structure of ELF binaries on Linux, enabling you to diagnose issues related to dependencies, symbols, and binary size.

Core Features & Use Cases

Dependency Analysis: Identify shared libraries a binary depends on using ldd.
Symbol Inspection: Examine exported and undefined symbols with nm.
Section Breakdown: Analyze the layout and size of different sections using readelf.
Disassembly: View the assembly code of a binary with objdump.
Use Case: You encounter an "undefined reference" error at runtime. This Skill guides you to use nm and ldd to find which library is missing the required symbol and ensure it's accessible.

Quick Start

Use the elf-inspection skill to list all dynamic symbols in the file '/usr/bin/ls'.

Frequently Asked Questions about elf-inspection

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I inspect ELF binaries to debug runtime linking errors on Linux?▼

Inspect ELF binaries on Linux by leveraging tools like readelf, objdump, nm, and ldd to examine symbols, sections, and dynamic linking information. This process diagnoses runtime linking errors by identifying missing shared libraries and undefined symbols.

How do I find which shared library is missing when I get an undefined reference error?▼

To resolve an undefined reference error, use the nm tool to inspect exported and undefined symbols, and ldd to identify shared library dependencies. This combination pinpoints which library is missing the required symbol and verifies its accessibility.

Can I analyze ELF section sizes for performance optimization?▼

Yes, you can analyze ELF section sizes for performance optimization using the readelf tool. Inspecting the layout and size of different sections helps you understand binary bloat and optimize the overall structure of the executable.

What is the best way to view the assembly code of an ELF binary?▼

The best way to view the assembly code of an ELF binary is by using the objdump tool. It disassembles the binary contents, allowing you to examine the low-level instructions and debug execution flow issues.

How do I list all dynamic symbols in a Linux binary file?▼

List all dynamic symbols in a Linux binary file by using the nm tool or readelf command. These tools extract and display the symbol table, showing both exported and undefined symbols required for dynamic linking.

Does ELF binary analysis work without installing external dependencies?▼

ELF binary analysis works without external dependencies because it relies on standard Linux tools like readelf, objdump, nm, and ldd. These utilities are typically pre-installed on Linux systems to inspect binary structure and contents directly.