CVE-2013-6218 in Network Node Manager i
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in HP Network Node Manager i (NNMi) 9.0x, 9.1x, and 9.2x allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unknown vectors.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6218 represents a critical security flaw within HP Network Node Manager i (NNMi) versions 9.0x through 9.2x, exposing organizations to significant remote execution risks. This unspecified vulnerability operates within the network management software ecosystem, where HP NNMi serves as a comprehensive solution for monitoring and managing network infrastructure components including routers, switches, servers, and various network devices. The affected versions of this software platform have been widely deployed across enterprise environments, making the potential impact of this vulnerability particularly severe given the privileged access and administrative capabilities typically associated with network management tools.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from unspecified attack vectors that enable remote code execution capabilities without requiring authentication or specific user interaction. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of remote code execution flaws, which are classified as CWE-119 in the Common Weakness Enumeration system, representing weaknesses that allow attackers to execute code in the context of the affected application. The unspecified nature of the vectors suggests that the vulnerability may involve multiple attack surfaces within the NNMi software stack, potentially including network protocols, input validation mechanisms, or service interfaces that handle external communications. The absence of specific details in the original CVE description indicates that the vulnerability likely resides in core application components that process external data without proper sanitization or access controls.
From an operational perspective, the impact of CVE-2013-6218 extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the NNMi service account. This presents a severe threat to enterprise network infrastructure since network management tools typically operate with elevated permissions to perform their monitoring and management functions. The attack surface is particularly concerning because NNMi systems are often deployed in critical network segments where they maintain connectivity to sensitive network components, potentially providing attackers with a foothold to move laterally across the network. The vulnerability's remote execution capability eliminates the need for physical access or local network presence, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise enterprise environments.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate remediation through official HP security patches and updates, as the lack of specific attack vector information makes the system particularly susceptible to exploitation. The vulnerability's classification aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve the execution of malicious code through the compromised NNMi service. Network segmentation strategies should be implemented to limit access to NNMi systems, while monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual network activity or unauthorized access attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing network access controls and firewall rules to restrict communication to NNMi services, particularly focusing on ports and protocols that may be exploited through this vulnerability. The absence of detailed technical information in the original CVE description underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date threat intelligence and vulnerability management practices to address unknown or unspecified vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure software.