>> The kfree() function was called in up to three cases by >> the ses_enclosure_data_process() function during error handling >> even if the passed variable contained a null pointer. >> This issue was detected by using the Coccinelle software. > > Why is this an issue? The whole point of having kfree(NULL) be a nop Such “a nop” can trigger the allocation of extra data processing resources, can't it? > is so we don't have to special case the free path. A bit more development attention can hopefully connect the mentioned label with a more appropriate jump target directly. > The reason we do > that is because multiple special case paths through code leads to more > complex control flows and more potential bugs. You probably know some advices from another information source. https://wiki.sei.cmu.edu/confluence/display/c/MEM12-C.+Consider+using+a+goto+chain+when+leaving+a+function+on+error+when+using+and+releasing+resources > If coccinelle suddenly > thinks this is a problem, it's coccinelle that needs fixing. This software tool can help to point source code places out for further considerations. The search patterns are evolving accordingly. Regards, Markus