CVE-2018-5791 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability was found in Extreme Networks ExtremeWireless WiNG 5.x versions prior to 5.8.6.9 and 5.9.x versions prior to 5.9.1.3. This vulnerability involves a heap overflow in the HSD (High-Speed Downlink) Process through the MINT (Media Independent Tunnel) Protocol on the WiNG Access Point when receiving manipulated packets. This vulnerability can be triggered remotely and does not require authentication.

Understanding CVE-2018-5791

This CVE-2018-5791 vulnerability affects Extreme Networks ExtremeWireless WiNG 5.x versions prior to 5.8.6.9 and 5.9.x versions prior to 5.9.1.3.

What is CVE-2018-5791?

CVE-2018-5791 is a heap overflow vulnerability in the HSD Process over the MINT Protocol on the WiNG Access Point in Extreme Networks ExtremeWireless WiNG versions before 5.8.6.9 and 5.9.1.3.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5791

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to trigger a heap overflow, potentially leading to unauthorized access or denial of service on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5791

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE-2018-5791 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a heap overflow in the HSD Process over the MINT Protocol on the WiNG Access Point, triggered by manipulated packets.

Affected Systems and Versions

Extreme Networks ExtremeWireless WiNG 5.x versions prior to 5.8.6.9
Extreme Networks ExtremeWireless WiNG 5.9.x versions prior to 5.9.1.3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without the need for authentication, making it a significant security concern.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-5791, follow these mitigation and prevention strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patches provided by Extreme Networks.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security audits and assessments.
Keep systems up to date with the latest firmware and security updates.
Educate users and IT staff on best security practices.

Patching and Updates

Extreme Networks has released patches to address this vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.