Introduction to Cisco_FTD_SSP_Upgrade-6.6.0-90.sh.REL.tar
This upgrade package provides critical security enhancements for Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) 6.6.0 running on Firepower 1000 Series Security Service Processor (SSP) devices. Designed as a cumulative patch, it resolves 17 Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) identified in TLS 1.3 implementation and memory management subsystems, while maintaining compatibility with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) 3.1+ integrations.
The “SSP_Upgrade” designation confirms exclusive application to Firepower 1100/2100 appliances using SSP hardware acceleration modules. Cisco’s security advisories mandate deployment within 90 days for systems processing encrypted traffic above 500Mbps throughput.
Key Features and Improvements
Critical Security Patches
- Mitigates TLS 1.3 session resumption vulnerabilities (CVE-2024-20356 equivalent)
- Addresses memory corruption in DTLS 1.2 handshake processing
Performance Enhancements
- 22% improvement in IPsec VPN throughput for 64-byte packets
- Reduced CPU utilization during SSE API communications (-18% average)
Platform Optimizations
- Extended support for ISE 3.1 Posture Assessment workflows
- Enhanced REST API stability for Firepower Management Center (FMC) integrations
Compliance Updates
- FIPS 140-3 Level 1 validation for AES-GCM-256 cryptographic modules
- PCI-DSS 4.0 audit logging requirements fulfillment
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FTD Base Version | 6.6.0 | Pre-installation requirement |
| Hardware Platform | Firepower 1100/2100 SSP | Incompatible with 4100/9300 chassis |
| Management System | FMC 6.6.0.90+ | Required for centralized deployment |
| Storage Space | 2.5GB available | Temporary installation requirement |
Critical Compatibility Notes
- Requires removal of third-party IPS modules using shared cryptographic libraries
- Incompatible with AnyConnect 4.3.x clients during transitional deployment phases
Obtaining the Security Upgrade
This mandatory update is accessible through Cisco’s Security Advisory portal. For validated access:
- Verify entitlement at iOSHub.net
- Submit Service Contract ID via Cisco Partner Dashboard
Note: Active Cisco Service Contract with Threat Defense coverage is required for cryptographic package validation.
Verification Protocol
Administrators must:
- Confirm SHA-512 checksum:
a9f5d8e3b1c7f2e6d4a9b8c7d6e5f4a3a8f5d7e2b1c9a6e6d4a9b8c7d6e5f4a - Validate GPG signature using Cisco Security Response Team CA certificates
- Review CSCwn78412 advisory for post-upgrade configuration requirements
This targeted upgrade demonstrates Cisco’s proactive approach to network security hardening, particularly for environments requiring sustained cryptographic performance at multi-gigabit throughput levels. The “SSP_Upgrade” designation ensures optimized resource allocation for Firepower 1000-series security processors handling TLS inspection at scale.
