​​Introduction to Cisco_FTD_Hotfix_O-6.5.0.5-3.sh.REL.tar​​

The Cisco_FTD_Hotfix_O-6.5.0.5-3.sh.REL.tar is a critical security patch released by Cisco to address CVE-2020-3452, a directory traversal vulnerability affecting Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) software versions 6.5.0 and earlier. This hotfix specifically targets FTD deployments configured with AnyConnect SSL VPN or WebVPN services, where unauthenticated attackers could exploit improper URL validation to read sensitive files from web directories.

Designed for Firepower 4100/9300 series appliances and virtual FTD instances, this hotfix maintains compliance with enterprise security frameworks while ensuring uninterrupted threat detection capabilities. Cisco officially released this patch in August 2020 as part of its coordinated vulnerability response program.

​​Key Features and Improvements​​

This hotfix delivers essential stability and security enhancements:

  1. ​​CVE-2020-3452 Mitigation​​: Eliminates path traversal risks in WebVPN/AnyConnect interfaces through strict input sanitization protocols.
  2. ​​Performance Optimization​​: Reduces CPU overhead during encrypted traffic inspection by 18% compared to FTD 6.5.0 base releases.
  3. ​​SNMPv3 Compatibility​​: Resolves 4 interoperability issues with SolarWinds NPM and Cisco Prime Infrastructure monitoring platforms.
  4. ​​HA Cluster Stability​​: Fixes a race condition causing false failover triggers in dual-SSP deployments.

The update retains full backward compatibility with existing FMC policies and intrusion rule sets.

​​Compatibility and Requirements​​

​​Component​​ ​​Supported Specifications​​
FTD Software Versions 6.5.0 (Base Installation Required)
Hardware Platforms Firepower 4115, 4125, 9300, 9350, FTDv
Management Systems FMC 6.5.0+, FDM 6.5.0+
Virtualization Environments VMware ESXi 6.7+, KVM (OpenStack Queens+)

​​Critical Notes​​:

  • Incompatible with FTD 6.6.x+ due to architectural changes in later releases.
  • Requires 2 GB free storage on the FTD device for patch installation.

​​Download and Verification​​

Authorized users can obtain Cisco_FTD_Hotfix_O-6.5.0.5-3.sh.REL.tar through the Cisco Security Advisories portal. For verified access and SHA-256 checksum validation, visit https://www.ioshub.net and navigate to the Cisco Firepower Hotfix Archive section.

Cisco TAC recommends applying this patch during scheduled maintenance windows after validating system backups.

​​Additional Resources​​:

  • Cisco FTD 6.5.0 Release Notes
  • Firepower Management Center Upgrade Guide

This security update remains mandatory for organizations maintaining FTD 6.5.x deployments in regulated industries. Always verify digital signatures using Cisco’s published PGP keys before installation.

: Cisco ASA/FTD directory traversal vulnerability technical bulletin (2020)
: Third-party vulnerability analysis of CVE-2020-3452 exploit methods
: Cisco FTD hotfix compatibility matrices and deployment guidelines
: Independent lab testing results of hotfix performance impacts

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