Troubleshooting OpenSSL 3.0.17 Unit Test Failures On CentOS 8

Jul 19, 2025 by gitftunila 62 views

Troubleshooting Unit Test Failures in OpenSSL 3.0.17 on CentOS 8

Introduction

Encountering unit test failures during the build process of OpenSSL 3.0.17 on a Linux CentOS 8 system can be a frustrating experience. This article delves into a specific instance of such failures, focusing on the 90-test_store.t test suite, and provides a comprehensive guide to understanding, diagnosing, and potentially resolving these issues. We'll explore the error messages, the environment in which they occurred, and potential steps to take to ensure a successful build of OpenSSL. This will help in maintaining the security and integrity of systems that rely on this critical cryptographic library. Let's examine the intricacies of the encountered errors and formulate strategies to address them effectively, ensuring a robust and secure OpenSSL build. Understanding the nuances of these failures is crucial for developers and system administrators alike, as it directly impacts the reliability of applications and services that depend on OpenSSL's cryptographic capabilities. We will dissect the error logs, analyze the test environment, and explore potential solutions to restore the build process to a successful state, thereby upholding the security posture of the system.

The Problem: Unit Test Failure on OpenSSL 3.0.17

A user reported failures in the unit tests while building OpenSSL 3.0.17 on a Linux CentOS 8 system. This issue manifested specifically in the 90-test_store.t test suite, an area crucial for the secure storage and retrieval of cryptographic keys and certificates. The user indicated that previous builds had been successful, suggesting a potential environmental change or a subtle bug within the OpenSSL codebase that was triggered under specific circumstances. The failure is particularly concerning because unit tests are designed to validate the fundamental functionality of the library. If these tests fail, it raises serious questions about the integrity of the build and the reliability of the cryptographic operations it performs. Therefore, a thorough investigation and resolution are paramount to ensure the security and dependability of any system relying on this build of OpenSSL. We will meticulously examine the error messages, the test environment, and the configuration to pinpoint the root cause and implement the necessary corrective actions.

The specific unit test failure output is as follows:

90-test_store.t .................... 257/? 
Engine "loader_attic" set.
406732AF3E7F0000:error:1608010C:STORE routines:ossl_store_handle_load_result:unsupported:crypto/store/store_result.c:151:
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' ../../../test/recipes/90-test_store_data/testrsa.pvk => 1
not ok 260
# ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#   Failed test at test/recipes/90-test_store.t line 204.
Engine "loader_attic" set.
40E7339E027F0000:error:1608010C:STORE routines:ossl_store_handle_load_result:unsupported:crypto/store/store_result.c:151:
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' /home/rlittle/openssl-3.0.17/test-runs/test_store/store_93795/../../../test/recipes/90-test_store_data/testrsa.pvk => 1
not ok 261
90-test_store.t .................... 318/? -------------------------------------
Engine "loader_attic" set.
40E77A67597F0000:error:0308010C:digital envelope routines:inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported:crypto/evp/evp_fetch.c:386:Global default library context, Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), Properties (<null>)
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' rsa-key-md5-des-sha1.p12 => 1
not ok 334
# ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#   Failed test at test/recipes/90-test_store.t line 210.
Engine "loader_attic" set.
4027C21B627F0000:error:0308010C:digital envelope routines:inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported:crypto/evp/evp_fetch.c:386:Global default library context, Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), Properties (<null>)
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' /home/rlittle/openssl-3.0.17/test-runs/test_store/store_93795/rsa-key-md5-des-sha1.p12 => 1
not ok 335
# ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#   Failed test at test/recipes/90-test_store.t line 212.
Engine "loader_attic" set.
4077BDDC9D7F0000:error:0308010C:digital envelope routines:inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported:crypto/evp/evp_fetch.c:386:Global default library context, Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), Properties (<null>)
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' 'file:/home/rlittle/openssl-3.0.17/test-runs/test_store/store_93795/rsa-key-md5-des-sha1.p12' => 1
not ok 336
90-test_store.t .................... 337/? -------------------------------------
Engine "loader_attic" set.
408707F5257F0000:error:0308010C:digital envelope routines:inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported:crypto/evp/evp_fetch.c:386:Global default library context, Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), Properties (<null>)
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' rsa-key-aes256-cbc-md5-des-sha256.p12 => 1
not ok 338
# ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#   Failed test at test/recipes/90-test_store.t line 210.
Engine "loader_attic" set.
40B7EA2B2C7F0000:error:0308010C:digital envelope routines:inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported:crypto/evp/evp_fetch.c:386:Global default library context, Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), Properties (<null>)
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' /home/rlittle/openssl-3.0.17/test-runs/test_store/store_93795/rsa-key-aes256-cbc-md5-des-sha256.p12 => 1
not ok 339
# ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#   Failed test at test/recipes/90-test_store.t line 212.
Engine "loader_attic" set.
40B7A6D30C7F0000:error:0308010C:digital envelope routines:inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported:crypto/evp/evp_fetch.c:386:Global default library context, Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), Properties (<null>)
# Total found: 0
../../../util/wrap.pl ../../../apps/openssl storeutl -engine loader_attic -noout -passin 'pass:password' 'file:/home/rlittle/openssl-3.0.17/test-runs/test_store/store_93795/rsa-key-aes256-cbc-md5-des-sha256.p12' => 1
not ok 340
90-test_store.t .................... 416/? -------------------------------------
90-test_store.t .................... Dubious, test returned 8 (wstat 2048, 0x800)
Failed 8/434 subtests

The errors indicate issues with the OpenSSL storeutl application, specifically when using the loader_attic engine. The failures seem to revolve around unsupported algorithms or issues with loading the store result. Key error messages include ossl_store_handle_load_result:unsupported and inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported. These errors point to potential problems with the engine's ability to handle certain key types or encryption algorithms, which could be due to missing dependencies, incorrect configuration, or a bug in the engine itself. The tests are attempting to load various RSA keys and P12 files, some using older encryption standards like MD5 and DES, which may not be enabled by default in more secure configurations. It is also possible that the loader_attic engine, which is being explicitly specified, is not fully compatible with all the tested key formats and algorithms. Understanding the specific context in which the engine is being used and its intended functionality is critical to resolving these issues. Further investigation into the engine's configuration and dependencies, as well as the security policies in place, is necessary to pinpoint the exact cause of these failures.

This occurred on a brand new CentOS 8.5 installation with all available updates. The fact that the system is newly installed with the latest updates suggests that the issue is likely not due to outdated packages or a corrupted system library. Instead, it points towards a potential configuration issue within the OpenSSL build process itself or a compatibility problem between OpenSSL 3.0.17 and the default CentOS 8.5 environment. Given that CentOS 8.5 reached its end-of-life (EOL) before this issue was reported, it is possible that some underlying dependencies or libraries have been updated or removed from the CentOS repositories, leading to inconsistencies with the OpenSSL build requirements. This makes the debugging process more complex, as it necessitates considering the state of the system at the time of the OpenSSL version's release and ensuring that all necessary dependencies are available and compatible. Thorough examination of the build environment, including compiler versions, library paths, and OpenSSL configuration options, is crucial to identify the root cause and implement the appropriate fix. Additionally, exploring alternative build environments or using containerization technologies to replicate a known-working environment can be valuable in isolating the issue.

A Perl dump was also attached, which provides valuable configuration information. The perl dump file can offer insights into various configuration settings and environment variables that were present during the build process. This information can be crucial in identifying any misconfigurations or inconsistencies that might be contributing to the test failures. By examining the Perl dump, we can determine the specific compiler flags used, the paths to libraries and include files, and any custom settings that were applied during the configuration stage. These details can help us understand whether the build process adhered to the expected configuration or if there were any deviations that could have led to the observed failures. Furthermore, the Perl dump can reveal information about the system's architecture, operating system version, and available Perl modules, which are all relevant factors when diagnosing build-related issues. Analyzing the dump in conjunction with the error messages and the test environment details can provide a holistic view of the problem and guide us towards a targeted solution.

Diagnosing the Issue

To effectively diagnose this issue, we need to break down the error messages and consider the environment. The primary errors, ossl_store_handle_load_result:unsupported and inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported, suggest that the loader_attic engine is either not configured correctly to handle the specified key types or is missing necessary support for the required algorithms. The loader_attic engine is a software module designed to extend OpenSSL's capabilities by providing support for various key and certificate storage mechanisms. Its role is to facilitate the loading and management of cryptographic credentials from diverse sources, which makes its proper functioning critical for secure operations. The error messages indicate that when attempting to load certain keys or certificates, the engine encounters either an unsupported operation or an algorithm that it cannot process. This could stem from several factors, such as missing dependencies, incorrect configuration settings, or inherent limitations in the engine's design. A deeper understanding of the engine's intended functionality and its interaction with the OpenSSL framework is essential to pinpoint the root cause and devise an effective solution. Furthermore, examining the engine's specific configuration and dependencies within the build environment can reveal potential areas of conflict or incompatibility that contribute to the observed failures.

ossl_store_handle_load_result:unsupported

This error typically arises when OpenSSL encounters a storage format or key type that the configured engine does not support. It indicates that the engine, in this case, loader_attic, is unable to process the format of the provided key file, suggesting a possible mismatch between the key type and the engine's capabilities. The OpenSSL framework is designed to be modular, allowing different engines to handle various cryptographic operations and storage formats. When this error occurs, it signifies that the selected engine lacks the necessary code or functionality to interpret the given key structure. This can be due to several reasons, such as the key being in a proprietary or less common format, the engine not being compiled with support for that particular format, or a configuration issue preventing the engine from recognizing the key type. To resolve this error, it is crucial to understand the specific format of the key file, the capabilities of the loader_attic engine, and whether any additional modules or configurations are required to enable support for that key type. Further investigation may involve consulting the engine's documentation, examining its source code, or testing with different key formats to isolate the issue.
inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported

This error indicates that OpenSSL is unable to fetch the required algorithm implementation. Specifically, it mentions Algorithm (PBKDF1 : 0), suggesting an issue with Password-Based Key Derivation Function 1 (PBKDF1). This is often seen when dealing with older key formats or when certain algorithms are disabled for security reasons. The EVP (Envelope) layer in OpenSSL is responsible for providing a high-level interface to various cryptographic algorithms, allowing applications to perform encryption, decryption, and key derivation without needing to deal with the low-level details of each algorithm. When the inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported error occurs, it signifies that the requested algorithm, in this case, PBKDF1, cannot be found or loaded by the EVP layer. This can happen if the algorithm is not compiled into the OpenSSL library, if it is explicitly disabled in the configuration, or if there are issues with the engine or provider that should be supplying the algorithm implementation. PBKDF1, while still supported in OpenSSL for compatibility reasons, is considered a weaker key derivation function compared to more modern alternatives like PBKDF2. Security best practices often recommend disabling or avoiding the use of PBKDF1 in new applications. Resolving this error may involve enabling the algorithm in the OpenSSL configuration, ensuring that the necessary providers and engines are correctly loaded, or, if possible, migrating to a more secure key derivation function.

Considering the environment, CentOS 8.5 is a relatively recent distribution, but it's essential to verify that all necessary development packages and libraries are installed. It is crucial to ensure that all required dependencies are in place, as missing or outdated libraries can lead to build and runtime issues. The process of verifying dependencies involves checking that the necessary packages are installed on the system and that their versions are compatible with the OpenSSL build requirements. This typically entails using the system's package manager to query for installed packages and comparing them against the list of dependencies specified in the OpenSSL documentation or build scripts. Common dependencies include compilers (such as GCC), build tools (such as Make), and various development libraries (such as zlib and Perl). If any dependencies are missing or have incompatible versions, they need to be installed or updated before proceeding with the OpenSSL build. Failure to address dependency issues can result in build failures, test failures, or even runtime errors in applications that rely on OpenSSL. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of the OpenSSL version being built, as different versions may have different dependency requirements. Regularly updating dependencies and ensuring their compatibility with the software being built is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a stable and secure system.

The attached Perl dump should be analyzed for configuration options, particularly those related to engine support and algorithm enablement. The Perl dump file contains a wealth of information about the configuration settings used during the OpenSSL build process. Analyzing this file can reveal crucial insights into how OpenSSL was configured, including the enabled or disabled features, the selected compilation options, and the paths to relevant libraries and include files. When troubleshooting build or test failures, the Perl dump serves as a valuable resource for understanding the build environment and identifying any misconfigurations that may be contributing to the issues. By examining the file, one can determine whether specific engines were enabled or disabled, whether certain algorithms were included or excluded, and whether any custom options were applied during the configuration stage. This information can then be cross-referenced with the error messages and test results to pinpoint the exact cause of the failures. For instance, if the errors indicate issues with a particular engine or algorithm, the Perl dump can confirm whether that engine or algorithm was properly enabled during the build process. Moreover, the file can help identify any potential conflicts between different configuration options or dependencies that may be leading to unexpected behavior. A thorough analysis of the Perl dump is therefore an essential step in the diagnostic process, providing a comprehensive view of the OpenSSL build configuration and guiding the troubleshooting efforts towards a targeted solution.

Potential Solutions

Based on the error messages and the environment, here are several potential solutions to address the unit test failures:

Ensure the loader_attic engine is correctly configured and built.

This involves verifying that the engine is properly enabled during the OpenSSL configuration process and that all necessary dependencies are installed. The loader_attic engine is responsible for handling various key and certificate storage formats, and its correct configuration is crucial for OpenSSL to function properly. To ensure that the engine is correctly configured, the first step is to check the OpenSSL configuration file or build scripts to confirm that the engine is explicitly enabled. This may involve setting specific configuration options or adding the engine to a list of enabled engines. Next, it is essential to verify that all the dependencies required by the loader_attic engine are installed on the system. These dependencies may include specific libraries, header files, or other software components that the engine relies on to operate. If any dependencies are missing, they need to be installed before proceeding with the build process. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the engine is built correctly as part of the OpenSSL build process. This may involve checking the build logs for any errors or warnings related to the engine and ensuring that the engine's object files are properly linked into the OpenSSL library. If the engine is not built correctly, it may not function as expected, leading to various issues, including test failures and runtime errors. By carefully checking the configuration, dependencies, and build process of the loader_attic engine, it is possible to ensure that it is correctly configured and built, which is a critical step in resolving OpenSSL-related issues.
Enable legacy algorithms if necessary.

The errors related to inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported and PBKDF1 suggest that legacy algorithms might be disabled by default. OpenSSL, in its effort to promote stronger security practices, may disable certain older algorithms by default. This is because these algorithms may have known vulnerabilities or are considered less secure compared to more modern alternatives. However, disabling these algorithms can lead to compatibility issues when dealing with older key formats or systems that rely on them. The inner_evp_generic_fetch:unsupported error, specifically mentioning PBKDF1, indicates that the Password-Based Key Derivation Function 1 is not available in the current configuration. To address this, you may need to explicitly enable these legacy algorithms. This can typically be done by modifying the OpenSSL configuration file or by providing specific command-line options during the build process. However, it is crucial to carefully consider the security implications of enabling legacy algorithms. Enabling weaker algorithms can increase the risk of security vulnerabilities and should only be done if absolutely necessary. If possible, it is recommended to migrate to more secure algorithms and key formats. Before enabling legacy algorithms, it is essential to thoroughly assess the risks and benefits and to implement appropriate security measures to mitigate any potential vulnerabilities. This may involve limiting the use of legacy algorithms to specific use cases or systems, implementing additional security controls, and regularly monitoring for any signs of compromise.
Investigate potential issues with the test files.

The test failures might be caused by corrupted or incompatible test files. This can occur due to various reasons, such as file system errors, incomplete downloads, or incorrect file generation during the build process. To rule out this possibility, it is essential to verify the integrity and compatibility of the test files used in the OpenSSL unit tests. This involves several steps, including checking the file checksums, comparing the file contents against known good copies, and ensuring that the files are in the expected format. Corrupted test files can lead to false-positive test failures, making it difficult to identify the real underlying issues. If any discrepancies are found, the affected files should be replaced with known good copies or regenerated if necessary. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the test files are compatible with the OpenSSL version being tested. Incompatible test files may contain data or formats that are not supported by the OpenSSL version, leading to test failures. This can happen if the test files were created for a different OpenSSL version or if there have been changes in the supported file formats. To address this, it may be necessary to update the test files to match the OpenSSL version or to use a different set of test files specifically designed for that version. By carefully investigating and addressing potential issues with the test files, you can ensure that the test results are reliable and accurately reflect the state of the OpenSSL build.
Check for environment-specific issues on CentOS 8.5.

While CentOS 8.5 is a relatively recent distribution, there might be specific compatibility issues or missing packages that affect OpenSSL 3.0.17. Operating systems can have specific configurations and package versions that may interact differently with software builds. Therefore, it's important to investigate potential environment-specific issues when encountering build failures. CentOS 8.5, like any operating system, has its own set of default packages, libraries, and configuration settings. These defaults may not always align perfectly with the requirements of all software, including OpenSSL 3.0.17. Compatibility issues can arise due to missing dependencies, outdated libraries, or conflicting configurations. To check for environment-specific issues, several steps can be taken. First, review the OpenSSL documentation and build instructions for any specific requirements or recommendations for CentOS 8.5. This may include installing certain packages or setting specific environment variables. Next, compare the installed packages and libraries on the system with the OpenSSL dependencies to identify any missing or outdated components. Additionally, check for any known compatibility issues between OpenSSL 3.0.17 and CentOS 8.5 in online forums or bug trackers. If any issues are identified, the appropriate steps can be taken to address them, such as installing missing packages, updating libraries, or modifying the OpenSSL configuration. By carefully checking for environment-specific issues, you can ensure that the operating system is properly configured to support the OpenSSL build and avoid potential compatibility problems.
Consider using a different build environment.

If the issue persists, try building OpenSSL in a different environment, such as a container or a virtual machine, to isolate the problem. Utilizing different build environments can help isolate the cause of build failures by eliminating potential environmental factors specific to the original system. Build environments encompass the operating system, installed software packages, and configuration settings used during the software compilation process. When build issues arise, it can be challenging to determine whether the problem stems from the source code, the build tools, or the environment itself. By building the software in multiple, isolated environments, you can systematically rule out environmental factors and narrow down the potential causes. Containers, such as Docker containers, provide lightweight, isolated environments that encapsulate the necessary dependencies and configurations for building software. Virtual machines, on the other hand, offer full system virtualization, allowing you to create entirely separate operating system instances. Both containers and virtual machines provide a controlled and reproducible environment for building software, minimizing the impact of external factors. If the build succeeds in one environment but fails in another, it suggests that the issue is likely related to the specific configuration or dependencies of the failing environment. This information can then be used to focus troubleshooting efforts on the problematic environment, making the debugging process more efficient.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting unit test failures in OpenSSL requires a systematic approach. By carefully examining the error messages, understanding the environment, and considering potential solutions, it's possible to identify and resolve the root cause of the issue. In this case, the failures in 90-test_store.t likely stem from a combination of misconfigured engine support and disabled legacy algorithms. Addressing these issues should lead to a successful build of OpenSSL 3.0.17 on CentOS 8. Remember that OpenSSL is a critical component for many systems, and ensuring its proper build and functionality is paramount for maintaining security and stability. It's essential to prioritize the resolution of build and test failures to avoid potential vulnerabilities and operational disruptions. This involves not only addressing the immediate issues but also implementing measures to prevent similar problems from recurring in the future. Regular testing, thorough documentation, and careful configuration management are key practices for maintaining a robust and secure OpenSSL environment. Additionally, staying informed about security advisories and updates from the OpenSSL project is crucial for promptly addressing any newly discovered vulnerabilities. By adopting a proactive and comprehensive approach to OpenSSL management, you can ensure that your systems remain secure and reliable.