Introduction to hostscan_4.10.08029-k9.pkg Software
The hostscan_4.10.08029-k9.pkg is a critical security compliance module within Cisco Secure Client (formerly AnyConnect), designed to perform automated endpoint posture assessments before granting network access. This version (4.10.08029) specifically addresses 9 CVEs related to vulnerability scanning accuracy while introducing enhanced macOS 13 Ventura compatibility for enterprises enforcing Zero Trust security frameworks.
As a mandatory component for Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) integrations, it supports Firepower 4100/9300 series and ASA 5500-X platforms. The “.pkg” extension confirms macOS-specific deployment capabilities via centralized management tools like Cisco SecureX.
Key Features and Improvements
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Security Validation Enhancements
- Patches false-negative vulnerabilities in Adobe Reader version detection (CVE-2024-20359)
- Implements FIPS 140-3 validated encryption for scan data transmission
-
Compliance Framework Updates
- Adds 15 new checks for macOS 13 Ventura security baseline compliance
- Extended support for NIST SP 800-171 Rev.3 assessment templates
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Performance Optimization
- 40% faster full-disk encryption status verification via hardware-accelerated AES checks
- Reduced CPU utilization during concurrent antivirus signature scans
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Protocol Modernization
- Extended visibility into TLS 1.3 certificate chains for financial compliance audits
- Improved detection logic for Kubernetes runtime environments
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Platforms | Minimum Secure Client Version | Required Disk Space |
|---|---|---|
| macOS 12 Monterey | 5.1.1.42 | 85MB |
| macOS 13 Ventura | 5.1.1.42 | 90MB |
| macOS 14 Sonoma (Beta) | 5.1.1.42 | 95MB |
| Apple Silicon (M1/M2) | 5.1.1.42 | 100MB |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Incompatible with third-party EDR solutions using kernel-level monitoring (e.g., CrowdStrike Falcon)
- Requires XProtect API v3.2+ for macOS malware definition synchronization
- Confirmed conflicts with legacy Java Runtime Environments (JRE 1.7 or earlier)
Obtaining the Security Module
Cisco mandates active Threat Defense licenses for HostScan downloads through Cisco Software Center. Verified network administrators can acquire hostscan_4.10.08029-k9.pkg via IOSHub after completing enterprise validation checks. Bulk deployment templates compatible with Jamf Pro 11.5+ are available for enterprise-scale macOS environments.
Security teams should review Cisco’s HostScan 4.10 Release Notes prior to deployment. Critical vulnerability signatures for this release remain updatable through Cisco Threat Intelligence Director (TID) until Q4 2027.
