CVE-2025-20159: Cisco IOS XR Software Management Interface ACL Bypass Vulnerability

Published Sep 10, 2025
·
Updated

A vulnerability in the management interface access control list (ACL) processing feature in Cisco IOS XR Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to bypass configured ACLs for the SSH, NetConf, and gRPC features. This vulnerability exists because management interface ACLs have not been supported on Cisco IOS XR Software Packet I/O infrastructure platforms for Linux-handled features such as SSH, NetConf, or gRPC. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by attempting to send traffic to an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to bypass an ingress ACL that is applied on the management interface of the affected device.

Affected Software

1 affected component
Cisco IOS XR Software

Event History

Sep 10, 2025
CVE Published
via MITRE·04:06 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·04:06 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·04:15 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2025-20159?

The severity of CVE-2025-20159 is considered high due to the potential for unauthenticated remote access.

2

How do I fix CVE-2025-20159?

To fix CVE-2025-20159, apply the recommended Cisco IOS XR Software patches that address the ACL processing vulnerability.

3

Who is affected by CVE-2025-20159?

Users of Cisco IOS XR Software managing SSH, NetConf, and gRPC features are affected by CVE-2025-20159.

4

What impact does CVE-2025-20159 have?

CVE-2025-20159 allows attackers to bypass configured access control lists, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

5

Is remediation mandatory for CVE-2025-20159?

Yes, remediation is mandatory for CVE-2025-20159 to secure the management interface against unauthorized access.

Contact

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