Remote Debugging

Overview of Remote Debugging

Remote debugging allows you to debug applications running in different environments, such as production servers or remote machines. This is particularly useful when:

Debugging production issues
Investigating problems in staging environments
Working with distributed systems
Debugging containerized applications

Setting Up Remote Debugging

JVM Configuration

To enable remote debugging, start the JVM with the following parameters:

java -agentlib:jdwp=transport=dt_socket,server=y,suspend=n,address=5005 -jar your-application.jar

Parameters explained:

transport=dt_socket: Use socket transport
server=y: Act as a server (wait for debugger to attach)
suspend=n: Don't suspend on startup
address=5005: Listen on port 5005

IntelliJ IDEA Configuration

Go to Run → Edit Configurations
Click the + button and select "Remote JVM Debug"
Configure the following:
- Name: Remote Debug Configuration
- Host: Your remote server's IP or hostname
- Port: 5005 (or your chosen port)
- Command line arguments: -agentlib:jdwp=transport=dt_socket,server=y,suspend=n,address=5005

Remote Debugging Workflow

Start the Application: Launch your application with remote debugging enabled
Attach the Debugger: Connect your IDE to the remote process
Set Breakpoints: Place breakpoints in your code
Debug: Use standard debugging features to inspect variables and step through code
Detach: When done, detach the debugger from the remote process

Best Practices

Use a dedicated port for remote debugging
Enable remote debugging only when needed
Secure the debugging port in production
Use appropriate log levels for debugging
Document remote debugging procedures

Common Issues and Solutions

Connection Issues

Check firewall settings
Verify network connectivity
Ensure correct port configuration
Check JVM arguments

Performance Impact

Use appropriate suspend settings
Limit breakpoint usage
Monitor system resources
Use conditional breakpoints

Security Considerations

Restrict access to debugging ports
Use secure networks for remote debugging
Implement proper authentication
Monitor debugging sessions
Disable remote debugging when not in use