CVE-2016-8203 in NetIron MLX Line Card
Summary
by MITRE
A memory corruption in the IPsec code path of Brocade NetIron OS on Brocade MLXs 5.8.00 through 5.8.00e, 5.9.00 through 5.9.00bd, 6.0.00, and 6.0.00a images could allow attackers to cause a denial of service (line card reset) via certain constructed IPsec control packets.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8203 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within the IPsec implementation of Brocade NetIron OS operating systems. This issue affects multiple versions of the Brocade MLX series switches, specifically targeting firmware images in the 5.8.00 through 5.8.00e, 5.9.00 through 5.9.00bd, 6.0.00, and 6.0.00a release cycles. The flaw resides in the IPsec code path which processes secure network communications, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through crafted network traffic without requiring authentication or privileged access. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes specially constructed IPsec control packets that trigger improper memory handling within the switch's line card processing components.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and more specifically with CWE-125, indicating out-of-bounds read errors. The memory corruption occurs during the processing of IPsec control packets that are designed to exploit gaps in input validation and memory management routines within the NetIron OS. When these malformed packets are received, the system's IPsec processing module fails to properly validate packet structures or allocate memory appropriately, leading to unpredictable behavior and system instability. The vulnerability operates at the network protocol level where IPsec traffic is handled, making it particularly insidious as it can be triggered through legitimate network communication channels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially compromise network availability and integrity. When exploited, the memory corruption causes line card resets, which can result in complete network disruption as the affected switch components fail and require manual intervention to restore functionality. This type of attack directly impacts the availability aspect of the CIA triad and can be classified under the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1499.004 technique for Network Denial of Service. The vulnerability affects network infrastructure components that are critical for maintaining secure communications, particularly in enterprise environments where IPsec is commonly used for site-to-site VPN connections and secure remote access. The fact that the attack can be executed through crafted control packets means that even unauthenticated attackers can potentially disrupt network services, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations relying on Brocade MLX switches for their network security infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8203 require immediate firmware updates from Brocade to address the memory corruption issues in the IPsec implementation. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious IPsec traffic, while also deploying intrusion detection systems capable of identifying malformed IPsec control packets. Network administrators should consider disabling IPsec functionality on affected switches until patches are applied, and implement monitoring procedures to detect line card resets or unusual network behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date network infrastructure firmware and implementing robust patch management processes, particularly for critical network security components. Additionally, organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify all affected Brocade MLX switches in their network infrastructure and prioritize remediation efforts based on the criticality of the impacted network segments.