Exploring Rust for FortiPath: A Brainstorming Session

[cywf]

Hello FortiPath community,

As we continuously strive to enhance the capabilities and performance of FortiPath, we're considering integrating the Rust programming language into our tech stack. Rust has been gaining traction in the tech community due to its performance, safety, and concurrency features. Let's brainstorm how we can leverage Rust in FortiPath!

Why Rust?

• Memory Safety: Rust's ownership system ensures memory safety without a garbage collector, reducing runtime overhead.
• Concurrency: Rust's approach to data races offers true concurrent execution, which can be crucial for real-time threat analysis and response.
• Performance: Rust is comparable to C and C++ in terms of performance, making it suitable for high-performance applications.
• Interoperability: Rust can easily interoperate with C and other languages, allowing for a smoother integration into existing systems.

Potential Use Cases in FortiPath:

1. High-Performance Modules: Modules like fortipath_osint_crawler or fortipath_behavioral_analysis can benefit from the speed Rust offers, especially when processing vast amounts of data.
2. Concurrency in Threat Analysis: Real-time threat analysis can be made more efficient using Rust's concurrency features.
3. Secure Cryptographic Operations: Rust's memory safety can be crucial when handling sensitive data, making it ideal for modules that deal with encryption or secure data transmission.

Brainstorming Ideas:

• Rust-based Microservices: Implement specific high-demand services in Rust to improve performance and scalability.
• Rewriting Performance-Critical Paths: Identify bottlenecks in the current system and rewrite those parts in Rust.
• Integrating Rust Libraries: There are numerous Rust libraries and frameworks that can be integrated into FortiPath to enhance its capabilities.

Challenges & Considerations:

• Learning Curve: While Rust offers many advantages, it comes with a steeper learning curve. Training might be required.
• Integration with Existing Systems: Ensuring Rust components work seamlessly with our current infrastructure will be crucial.
• Maintenance: Introducing a new language means a new set of tools, practices, and potential issues to consider.

Next Steps:

1. Feasibility Study: Assess the technical challenges and benefits of integrating Rust.
2. Community Feedback: We'd love to hear your experiences with Rust, potential challenges, and areas where you think Rust can shine.
3. Prototyping: Before a full-scale integration, we can prototype specific modules or services in Rust to gauge its benefits.

We're excited about the potential benefits Rust can bring to FortiPath. However, a decision this significant requires thorough research and community input. Please share your insights, experiences, and suggestions below!