CVE-2026-46165: openvswitch: vport: fix self-deadlock on release of tunnel ports
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
openvswitch: vport: fix self-deadlock on release of tunnel ports
vports are used concurrently and protected by RCU, so netdevput() must happen after the RCU grace period. So, either in an RCU call or after the synchronizenet(). The rtnldeletelink() must happen under RTNL and so can't be executed in RCU context. Calling synchronizenet() while holding RTNL is not a good idea for performance and system stability under load in general, so calling netdevput() in RCU call is the right solution here.
However, when the device is deleted, rtnlunlock() will call netdevruntodo() and block until all the references are gone. In the current code this means that we never reach the callrcu() and the vport is never freed and the reference is never released, causing a self-deadlock on device removal.
Fix that by moving the rcucall() before the rtnlunlock(), so the scheduled RCU callback will be executed when synchronizenet() is called from the rtnlunlock()->netdevruntodo() while the RTNL itself is already released.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 6.6.141.1-1
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-46165?
CVE-2026-46165 has a risk score of 23, indicating a significant vulnerability in the Linux kernel.
How do I fix CVE-2026-46165?
To mitigate CVE-2026-46165, ensure that the latest updates and patches for the Linux kernel are applied promptly.
What systems are affected by CVE-2026-46165?
CVE-2026-46165 affects systems running the Open vSwitch feature in the Linux kernel.
What impact does CVE-2026-46165 have on system performance?
CVE-2026-46165 can lead to self-deadlock issues on the release of tunnel ports, potentially degrading network performance.
Is CVE-2026-46165 publicly disclosed?
Yes, CVE-2026-46165 was publicly disclosed on May 28, 2026.