gdb

Attach to live Linux processes and set dynamic tracepoints with GDB.

44|4|Updated Feb 10, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/betab0t/skills --skill gdb-betab0t
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: gdb
Source: https://github.com/betab0t/skills/tree/main/skills/gdb
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/betab0t/skills --skill gdb-betab0t

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

It allows AI agents to debug and trace running programs without blocking or interrupting their responsiveness.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Real-time Process Monitoring: Attach to live processes to observe and extract information.
  • Dynamic Tracepoints: Set conditional logging points using dprintf to monitor specific events or variables.
  • Use Case: Imagine debugging a server application — set a tracepoint to log variable states when certain conditions are met, all while the server continues processing requests.

Quick Start

Use the gdb skill to start a debugging session with your executable, then set conditional tracepoints and run the program.

Frequently Asked Questions about gdb

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I debug a live Linux process without blocking its execution?

Non-blocking debugging allows you to attach to live Linux processes and monitor them non-intrusively. By dynamically inserting tracepoints, you can observe variable states and specific events while the program continues processing requests without interruption.

Can I set conditional tracepoints on a running server to log variable states?

Yes, you can set conditional tracepoints using dprintf on a running server. This dynamic tracing mechanism logs specific variable states when defined conditions are met, enabling real-time monitoring without disrupting the live process's responsiveness.

How does dynamic tracing with dprintf work for real-time process monitoring?

Dynamic tracing uses dprintf to set conditional logging points within a live process. It extracts information by evaluating specific events or variables in real-time, allowing AI agents to monitor development scenarios and troubleshoot with minimal disruption.

Do I need ptrace capabilities to use gdb for non-intrusive debugging?

Yes, ptrace capabilities are required on your Linux system to use this non-intrusive debugging approach. The functionality relies on GDB features like scripting, logging, and conditional breakpoints to attach to and monitor live processes.

What is the best way to monitor specific events in a running application without stopping it?

The best way to monitor specific events without stopping your application is attaching to the live process and using dprintf for dynamic tracing. This non-blocking approach evaluates conditional logging points to observe program behavior in real-time.

Are there limitations when attaching to live processes for real-time debugging?

Limitations include relying on Linux systems with ptrace capabilities and GDB features like scripting and logging. While designed for minimal disruption, non-blocking debugging is intended for development and troubleshooting scenarios rather than production environments.