Introduction
Privilege escalation on Linux servers is a critical concern for enterprise environments, especially when it involves widely deployed networking hardware. CVE-2025-24303 impacts Intel 800 Series Ethernet Linux drivers and allows authenticated local users to gain elevated privileges. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for data centers and organizations relying on Intel's high-performance networking solutions.
Intel is a dominant force in the global semiconductor and networking hardware industry. Its Ethernet products are present in a vast range of enterprise and cloud environments, powering critical infrastructure worldwide. The 800 Series Ethernet controllers are a flagship offering, known for their performance and feature set in demanding network scenarios.
Technical Information
CVE-2025-24303 is classified under CWE-754: Improper Check for Unusual or Exceptional Conditions. The vulnerability exists in the Linux kernel-mode driver for Intel 800 Series Ethernet controllers, specifically in versions before 1.17.2. The flaw is due to insufficient validation or handling of exceptional states within the driver code. This improper check can allow an authenticated local user to escalate privileges on the affected system.
The vulnerability is not remotely exploitable and requires local access with valid credentials. No public exploit code or detailed technical breakdown is available in the official advisories. The root cause is attributed to the failure of the driver to properly handle certain edge cases or error conditions, which can be leveraged by a local attacker to execute code with elevated privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Intel 800 Series Ethernet Linux kernel-mode driver
- Affected versions: All versions before 1.17.2
- Only Linux systems using the Intel 800 Series Ethernet hardware with the vulnerable driver are impacted
- The vulnerability requires local authenticated access
Vendor Security History
Intel has previously addressed multiple vulnerabilities in its Ethernet driver products. Notable advisories include:
- INTEL-SA-00918: Multiple privilege escalation and information disclosure issues in Intel 800 Series Ethernet drivers
- INTEL-SA-01236: Information disclosure vulnerability in the same product family
Intel typically provides coordinated disclosures and timely patches. The company maintains a dedicated security center for advisories and has demonstrated a consistent approach to vulnerability management in its networking products.