Introduction to Cisco_FTD_SSP_Patch-6.4.0.9-62.sh.REL.tar Software
This critical hotfix package addresses security vulnerabilities and operational stability issues in Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software 6.4.0 running on Firepower 4100 Series Security Appliances. Released as part of Cisco’s October 2024 Security Advisory Bundle, the patch specifically resolves CVE-2020-3452 – a path traversal vulnerability affecting WebVPN configurations.
The hotfix applies to FTD software versions 6.4.0.9 through 6.4.0.10, maintaining compatibility with both Firepower Management Center (FMC)-managed and Firepower Device Manager (FDM)-managed deployments. Cisco engineers recommend immediate installation for environments using AnyConnect SSL VPN or IKEv2 Remote Access client services.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Critical Vulnerability Remediation
- Eliminates unauthorized file read capabilities through web services interfaces
- Implements strict path validation for WebVPN directory requests
- Adds SHA-256 checksum verification for backup file restoration
2. Operational Enhancements
- Reduces memory leaks in Snort 3 inspection processes
- Improves TCP session handling under high traffic loads (>5Gbps)
- Fixes false-positive alerts in intrusion prevention system (IPS) signatures 36650-36700
3. Platform Optimization
- Reduces CPU utilization spikes during policy deployments by 22-35%
- Extends hardware compatibility for FPR4120/4150 models with upgraded SSD configurations
- Enables TLS 1.3 support for management plane communications
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum Software | Storage Requirement | Management Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| FPR4110 | FTD 6.4.0.9 | 50GB free space | FMC v6.7+ |
| FPR4125 | FTD 6.4.0.10 | 50GB free space | FDM v6.4.1+ |
| FPR4140 | FTD 6.4.0.9 | 60GB free space | FMC v6.6.4+ |
| FPR4150 | FTD 6.4.0.10 | 60GB free space | FDM v6.5+ |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with Firepower 9300 ASA Security Module
- Requires Secure Firewall ASA 5500-X Series hardware crypto acceleration
- Not supported on virtual FTD instances
Accessing the Software Package
Network administrators can obtain Cisco_FTD_SSP_Patch-6.4.0.9-62.sh.REL.tar through:
- Cisco’s official Software Download portal (contract customers)
- Verified third-party repositories like IOSHub
- Emergency download via Cisco TAC for non-contract users
For immediate deployment guidance, refer to Cisco’s Firepower 4100 Series Upgrade Checklist (Document ID: 221036-004 Rev. B). Always validate file integrity using SHA-512 checksum:
4a9d7f...b82c1e before installation.
Security Validation
This hotfix underwent 140+ regression tests covering:
- ASLR bypass prevention
- Control flow integrity verification
- IPSec IKEv2 handshake stability
- SSL decryption performance metrics
Cisco PSIRT confirms full remediation of CVE-2020-3452 exploitation vectors through independent penetration testing.
This technical overview synthesizes information from Cisco Security Advisories cisco-sa-asaftd-ro-path-KJuQhB86 and Firepower 4100 Series Release Notes 6.4.0.10. Always consult official documentation before deployment.
