A call gate is a processor function that allows code to temporarily act as if it were a higher-privileged program. It provides faster response times but can also be exploited by unauthorized programs. Call gates can be attacked by viruses, so it’s important to keep operating systems updated. Newer methods are generally faster but only allow for predetermined levels of program privileges.
A call gate is a processor function in Intel central processing units (CPUs). Allows CPU privilege level to be dynamically altered when using certain instructions. This allows code and lower-privileged programs to temporarily act as if they were higher-privileged programs. The main benefit of a call gate is the ability of the program to execute a high-level command on the system with a much faster response time than a call proceeding through an interrupt gate. One drawback is the possibility for unauthorized programs to bypass security measures through the use of calling ports.
Think of a call gate as a backdoor into the processor through which higher-level commands, such as changing stored information, can be executed. While nearly all programs on a computer have reason to execute these types of commands, most programs are necessarily limited in their privileges by the operating system. This prevents potentially malicious code from indiscriminately manipulating your computer. The operating system ensures that routine calls arriving at the processor through the call gate are legitimate. This extra layer of security protects your computer’s memory from most types of basic hacking threats.
However, some viruses specifically attack computer call gates. Posing as a legitimate program, worms and viruses can gain access to the call gate, allowing them to take over higher-level computer functions. This can potentially compromise security and personal information on the system, illustrating the importance of constantly updating an operating system, as call gate exploits are often patched, via OS revisions, as soon as they are discovered.
Calling ports are only used by certain processors that were manufactured in a limited time frame. Newer methods are generally faster than call gates, just like call gates are faster than traditional interrupts. The major drawback of these newer methods is that they only allow for the enforcement of program privileges to a predetermined level, where as a call gate it can decide which privilege level to assign indiscriminately to a program.
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