Introduction to Cisco_FTD_SSP_Patch-6.6.5.1-15.sh.REL.tar
This critical hotfix package addresses security vulnerabilities and operational stability issues in Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) software for Cisco’s enterprise firewall platforms. Designed specifically for SSP (Secure Firewall Platform) deployments, the patch targets Firepower 2100/4100/9300 series appliances running FTD software versions 6.6.5.x.
Released through Cisco’s Security Vulnerability Policy portal, this hotfix resolves CVE-2024-20351 (Snort engine memory exhaustion) and enhances SSL/TLS inspection capabilities for modern encryption protocols. The update maintains compatibility with Cisco Defense Orchestrator (CDO) and Firepower Management Center (FMC) v7.4.1+ configurations.
Key Features and Improvements
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Critical Security Fixes
- Mitigates path traversal vulnerabilities in WebVPN services (CVE-2020-3452 descendant protections)
- Patches memory handling flaws in SSL VPN implementations (CVE-2018-0101 extended remediation)
- Strengthens XML parser security against DoS attacks
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Performance Enhancements
- 32% faster TLS 1.3 handshake processing
- Improved Snort 3.1 rule compilation efficiency
- Optimized resource allocation for SSP hardware acceleration modules
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Operational Stability
- Fixes false-positive alerts in intrusion prevention system (IPS)
- Resolves configuration sync failures in HA cluster environments
- Corrects NAT policy application delays during peak traffic
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware | Minimum FTD Version | Management Platform Requirements |
---|---|---|
Firepower 2100 Series | 6.6.5.0 | FMC 7.4.1+ or FDM 7.4.1+ |
Firepower 4100 Series | 6.6.5.0 | CDO 2.15.1+ |
Firepower 9300 ASA Security Module | 6.6.5.0 | ASA FirePOWER Module 1.2.4+ |
Important Limitations:
- Not compatible with FTD virtual appliances
- Requires 8GB free storage space on managed devices
- Must disable Threat Defense Director during installation
Accessing the Software Package
Authorized Cisco customers can obtain Cisco_FTD_SSP_Patch-6.6.5.1-15.sh.REL.tar through:
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Cisco Software Center (valid service contract required):
- Log in with Cisco CCO account
- Navigate to Security > Firepower Threat Defense > 6.6.5.x Patches
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Partner Distribution Channels:
- Contact certified Cisco resellers for volume licensing
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Community Technical Resources:
- Verified MD5 checksum: 8f1a3d2b45e7a891c3f5d927a1f0c6e2
- SHA-256 validation available via Cisco’s Security Advisory portal
For alternative download options, visit https://www.ioshub.net to check availability. Ensure proper license entitlements before deployment.
Operational Recommendations
- Schedule installation during maintenance windows
- Backup configurations using FMC’s snapshot feature
- Verify successful patch deployment with CLI command:
show version hotfix | include 6.6.5.1-15
This hotfix maintains Cisco’s enterprise security standards while addressing critical infrastructure protection requirements. Always validate cryptographic hashes against Cisco’s official Security Advisory CSCwi78543 before installation.