CVE-2026-20182: Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller Authentication Bypass Vulnerability
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller & Manager contain an authentication bypass vulnerability that allows an unauthenticated, remote attacker to bypass authentication and obtain administrative privileges on an affected system.
Other sources
May 2026: This security advisory provides the details and fix information for a vulnerability that was discovered and fixed after the was disclosed in February 2026. This new advisory is for a new vulnerability in the control connection handshaking. The section of this advisory includes Show Control Connections guidance to help with system checks. A vulnerability in the peering authentication in Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller, formerly SD-WAN vSmart, Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Manager, formerly SD-WAN vManage, and Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Validator, formerly SD-WAN vBond, could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to bypass authentication and obtain administrative privileges on an affected system. This vulnerability exists because the peering authentication mechanism in an affected system is not working properly. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted requests to the affected system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to log in to an affected Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller as an internal, high-privileged, non-root user account. Using this account, the attacker could access NETCONF, which would then allow the attacker to manipulate network configuration for the SD-WAN fabric.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Compensating control
Adhere to BOD 22-01 cloud services guidance for mitigation; if mitigations are not available for the affected Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller/Manager, discontinue use of the product.
- Compensating control
Assess exposure and mitigate risks associated with Cisco SD-WAN devices by following CISA’s Emergency Directive 26-03 and CISA’s Hunt & Hardening Guidance for Cisco SD-WAN Devices.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-20182?
CVE-2026-20182 has been rated as a critical vulnerability due to its potential to allow unauthorized access to administrative privileges.
How do I fix CVE-2026-20182?
To mitigate CVE-2026-20182, ensure the affected Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller and Manager are updated to the latest security patches provided by Cisco.
What systems are affected by CVE-2026-20182?
CVE-2026-20182 affects Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Controller and Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Manager.
Who can exploit CVE-2026-20182?
CVE-2026-20182 can be exploited by unauthenticated remote attackers who can bypass authentication.
What are the risks associated with CVE-2026-20182?
The risks associated with CVE-2026-20182 include unauthorized access, potential data breach, and complete system compromise.