Exploits of the Past: Things Hackers Never Forget
The reaction to exploits is often fast and furious. IT and SecOps folks are active and living in the moment to protect against the threat du jour. But threats from the past are just as likely to come back to haunt you if the proper actions were not taken the first time around. Those proper actions include patching or upgrading your Network OS/firmware or upgrading your end-of-life hardware. I know, it’s a pain. After all, it’s not your problem, it’s your Network vendor’s problem. But if the vendor provides a fix, is it still their problem? If the vendor no longer supports vulnerability patches on the hardware running in your infrastructure and has provided ample notification for end of life, are you responsible for taking action? In both cases, the answer is yes.
In an article posted on CSO.com on March 31, 2025, they cited a recent report by Cisco’s Talos threat intelligence unit that underscores this urgency of action. The report revealed that in 2024, two of the top three vulnerabilities exploited by threat actors were found in end-of-life (EOL) network devices. These devices, no longer supported by manufacturers with security patches, became prime targets for cyberattacks.
The Critical Role of Software Patch Management
This may sound like a broken record or a skipping song, but network software patches and upgrades are essential to keeping your infrastructure safe. This protects your company and your customers. Vendors release these updates to address security vulnerabilities, fix bugs, and enhance functionality. Effective patch management ensures systems remain protected against known exploits and operate smoothly.
Neglecting network systems software updates can leave your entire infrastructure vulnerable to attacks, as unpatched software is a common entry point for cybercriminals. A vulnerability on your network devices provides hackers with a whole host of access to your entire infrastructure. Point in case, remember the “Log4j2” vulnerability from 2021? According to the article cited in this post, this one vulnerability still accounts for 36% of top exploits. Cisco’s Talos threat intelligence report indicates that the US Department of Homeland Security estimates it will take at least 10 years to find every vulnerable instance.
The Necessity of Timely Hardware Upgrades
While software updates are crucial during the hardware’s active shelf life, they can only do so much if the underlying hardware is outdated. EOL network devices no longer receive firmware updates or security patches, making them susceptible to exploitation. The Cisco Talos report highlights that vulnerabilities in obsolete network devices were among the most targeted by attackers in 2024.
Upgrading hardware ensures compatibility with the latest security protocols and software enhancements. Organizations should assess their hardware lifecycle and plan timely replacements to maintain a robust security posture.
Integrating Patch Management and Hardware Upgrades
Rather than looking at just one side of the equation, it’s better to combine the view of your network infrastructure to know how to plan accordingly. You can prioritize OS patches and upgrades during your routine maintenance windows and schedule accordingly (even for emergency patch releases – always prepare for the unknown). Likewise, having clear visibility into your hardware EOL allows you to strategically plan for budgeting, resourcing, and targeting your replacements.
By integrating these practices, organizations can protect themselves against exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated systems and maintain operational integrity.
In conclusion, the CSO.com article and Cisco’s Talos report findings are a stark reminder of the risks associated with neglecting software and hardware maintenance. CIOs, CSOs, IT, and SecOps must commit to regular software patch and upgrade management and timely hardware upgrades to defend against past and present cyber threats, as hackers never forget exploits they can use to their advantage.
At Cadent Solutions, we specialize in helping businesses understand software upgrade lifecycle for network edge technologies against the latest vendor-recommended patches and upgrades. Our solutions provide an overview of your infrastructure to allow you to make informed decisions in a timely manner, minimizing risk and exposure. Contact us today to learn how we can we can help.
