CVE-2026-50370 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 07/14/2026
Heap-based buffer overflow in Windows DHCP Server allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over an adjacent network.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the windows dhcp server implementation that enables remote code execution when exploited by attackers positioned on the same network segment. The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the dhcp server component responsible for processing incoming dhcp requests and responses. When maliciously crafted dhcp packets are transmitted to the target server, the insufficient bounds checking allows attacker-controlled data to overwrite adjacent heap memory regions, potentially corrupting critical program structures or executing arbitrary code with the privileges of the dhcp server process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within network infrastructure that can be leveraged for further lateral movement and reconnaissance activities. Network administrators who rely on dhcp services for dynamic ip address allocation face significant risk when this vulnerability exists in their environment, particularly in scenarios where dhcp servers are accessible from untrusted network segments or when network segmentation policies are inadequate. The remote code execution capability means that attackers do not require direct system access or authentication credentials to exploit this flaw, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical network access is limited but network-based attacks are possible.
The vulnerability aligns with several common weakness enumerations including cwe-121 heap-based buffer overflow and cwe-787 out-of-bounds write conditions that are frequently exploited in network-based attack scenarios. From an attack tactics perspective this vulnerability maps directly to the attack technique of privilege escalation through remote code execution as outlined in the mitre att&ck framework, specifically covering the execution and persistence phases of the attack lifecycle. Network-based exploitation is particularly concerning because it requires minimal attack surface preparation and can be automated using readily available network scanning tools that can identify vulnerable dhcp servers on adjacent networks.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of affected windows dhcp server implementations through microsoft security updates and service packs that address the heap overflow conditions in the dhcp protocol handling code. Network segmentation measures including the deployment of dhcp relay agents, proper firewall rules restricting dhcp traffic to trusted segments, and implementation of network access control lists can significantly reduce the attack surface. Additionally implementing network monitoring solutions capable of detecting anomalous dhcp traffic patterns and unusual dhcp request sequences can provide early warning capabilities. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary dhcp services on network devices and implementing strict access controls that limit which systems can communicate with dhcp servers. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focused on network infrastructure components help identify potential exploitation vectors while maintaining comprehensive audit logs of dhcp server activities for forensic analysis purposes.