Network Device Weaknesses

Whether IOS based or embedded in the circuitry, such as application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), network devices can have vulnerabilities, often called “holes,” that can be exploited. Some might lay dormant for years until someone stumbles across one, and either exploits it or documents it. Often the process of documenting and notifying the user base of a problem lays out a roadmap to troublemakers.

When possible patches, IOS upgrades, and best practices should be applied to eliminate or mitigate known problems. In some cases, it might be determined that the device should be abandoned or moved to a part of the network that would be impacted less by the problem.