1. Introduction to Cisco_FTD_Patch-6.5.0.5-95.sh.REL.tar
This critical security patch addresses CVE-2020-3452, a directory traversal vulnerability in Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) software affecting versions 6.5.0 through 6.5.0.4. Released under Cisco’s Security Vulnerability Policy, the hotfix specifically targets FTD appliances with active WebVPN/AnyConnect configurations, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive web service files while maintaining system stability.
Version: 6.5.0.5-95
Release Date: August 2020 (aligned with Cisco Security Advisory cisco-sa-asaftd-ro-path-KJuQhB86)
Compatible Platforms:
- Firepower 4100 Series (4150/4140/4120/4110)
- Firepower 9300 Chassis with FPR9K-NM-4X100G modules
- FTD virtual appliances running VMware ESXi 6.0-6.7
The patch implements strict URL validation protocols for HTTP requests targeting WebVPN services, hardening the attack surface exposed by the vulnerability.
2. Technical Enhancements & Security Fixes
2.1 Vulnerability Remediation
- CVE-2020-3452 Mitigation: Implements SHA-256 hash verification for WebVPN resource paths, blocking directory traversal attempts via crafted HTTP requests
- Access Control Reinforcement: Restricts file read operations to authorized WebVPN directories only
2.2 Performance Optimizations
- Reduces CPU overhead during SSL/TLS handshake processing by 18%
- Improves memory management for concurrent WebVPN sessions (max threshold increased to 25,000 connections)
2.3 Monitoring Enhancements
- Adds real-time alerts for abnormal path traversal attempts via show asp drop command output
- Updates SNMP MIBs (CISCO-FIREPOWER-MIB) with WebVPN security event counters
2.4 Compatibility Updates
- Supports FTD Secure Firewall Manager (FMC) 6.5.0.4+ for centralized patch deployment
- Validates interoperability with Cisco Umbrella SIG 2.3.1+
3. Compatibility Requirements
| Component | Minimum Version | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FTD Base Image | 6.5.0.4 | Must be installed before patch application |
| Hardware | Firepower 4100 (2020+ HW rev) Firepower 9300 w/FP9K-NM modules |
Excludes 2100/3100 series |
| Hypervisor | ESXi 6.0 U3+ KVM 3.10.0-1160+ |
For virtual deployments |
| Storage | 2.7GB free space | For patch staging and rollback files |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with Firepower Management Center (FMC) versions <6.4.0.9
- Requires temporary service interruption during installation (15-25min downtime)
4. Verified Download Protocol
Authorized administrators can obtain Cisco_FTD_Patch-6.5.0.5-95.sh.REL.tar through:
- Cisco’s Software Central with valid CCO account and TAC contract
- Partner portal access via IOSHub.net after serial number validation
Integrity Verification:
- SHA-256 Checksum:
8d7f1a6b4c9a1b5c2e3d8f9a0b1c2d3e4f5a6b7c8d9e0f1a2b3c4d5e6f7a8b9 - PGP Signature: Signed with Cisco ASA/FTD Master Key 0x6BCB157B
This patch aligns with Cisco’s Firepower Threat Defense Lifecycle Policy and NIST SP 800-193 standards. Always validate system configurations against Cisco’s Security Advisories before deployment.
