# Debug with GDB

Source: [https://docs.qualcomm.com/doc/80-41102-1/topic/Debug-with-GDB.html](https://docs.qualcomm.com/doc/80-41102-1/topic/Debug-with-GDB.html)

This section provides details on using the open-source GDB tool on a dev machine to debug unsandboxed apps. This type of remote debugging is useful where resources are limited, such as in embedded apps.

The sample uses an app called helloWorld with one executable `helloWorld`.

To use GDB with a sandboxed app:
      
1. Install gdb, gdbserver into the toolchain.
2. Build the application with debug symbols.

On the target device:
1. Ensure that the devMode app is installed and running.
2. Run the unsandboxed app.
3. Start `gdbserver` in the app.
4. Start the process in the app with `gdbserver`.
5. Remove `gdb` from the sandboxed app after you are finished debugging.

On the dev machine:
1. Launch `gdb` from the apps make directory.
2. Remote connect to the target and run `gdb` commands.

- **[Install gdb and gdbserver to toolchain](https://docs.qualcomm.com/doc/80-41102-1/topic/Install-gdb-and-gdbserver-to-toolchain.html)**
- **[Build the application with debug symbols](https://docs.qualcomm.com/doc/80-41102-1/topic/Build-the-application-with-debug-symbols.html)**

**Parent Topic:** [Debug Apps](https://docs.qualcomm.com/doc/80-41102-1/topic/Debug-Apps.html)

Last Published: May 12, 2026

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