CVE-2011-3173 in Iprint Open Enterprise Server 2
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the GetDriverSettings function in nipplib.dll in the iPrint client in Novell Open Enterprise Server 2 (aka OES2) SP3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long (1) hostname or (2) port field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3173 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the iPrint client component of Novell Open Enterprise Server 2 Service Pack 3. This vulnerability exists in the nipplib.dll library and specifically affects the GetDriverSettings function, which processes network communication parameters during printer driver configuration. The flaw manifests when the function receives excessively long hostname or port field inputs, creating conditions where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. Such buffer overflow conditions fall under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow vulnerabilities where insufficient bounds checking allows memory corruption. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can leverage this weakness from network locations without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where printing services are commonly exposed to external networks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass potential system compromise and privilege escalation scenarios. When successful, the buffer overflow allows remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected iPrint client process, which typically runs with elevated permissions to manage printer configurations. This could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to network resources, escalate privileges to system administrator levels, or establish persistent backdoors within the enterprise network infrastructure. The attack vector specifically targets the hostname and port fields, which are standard parameters used in network service discovery and connection establishment, making the vulnerability particularly insidious as it can be triggered through normal network communication patterns. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving code injection and privilege escalation, with the potential for lateral movement within the network once initial access is achieved.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3173 should prioritize immediate patch application from Novell, as the vendor has released security updates addressing this specific buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to iPrint client services, particularly restricting external exposure of printing infrastructure. Additional defensive measures include deploying network intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious hostname and port field patterns, implementing input validation controls to filter excessively long network parameters, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in other network components. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary printing services when not required, implementing strict access controls for print server configurations, and maintaining detailed monitoring of print job activities for signs of unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper bounds checking in network service implementations and highlights the critical need for regular security assessments of enterprise printing infrastructure components. Organizations should also review their overall security posture regarding legacy network services and ensure comprehensive patch management processes are in place to address similar vulnerabilities across their entire technology stack.