A critical command-injection vulnerability in TP-Link’s Omada gateway series allows remote attackers to execute system-level commands, giving them full device control. The flaw affects several popular models and demands immediate attention from network administrators.
Technical Overview
Two vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-6542 (CVSS 9.3) and CVE-2025-6541 (CVSS 8.6), permit remote OS command execution on TP-Link Omada gateways. The first can be triggered without authentication, while the second requires a valid login session. Exploiting either lets attackers run arbitrary system commands.
Affected devices include ER8411, ER7412-M2, ER707-M2, ER7206, ER605, ER706W (and 4G), ER7212PC, G36, G611, FR365, FR205, and FR307-M2. Devices running outdated firmware remain at high risk.
Attack Vectors
These vulnerabilities target the web-management interface used by administrators to configure gateways. CVE-2025-6542 lets an unauthenticated user inject OS commands through malformed HTTP requests. CVE-2025-6541, meanwhile, enables logged-in users to escalate privileges through input-handling flaws.
If exploited, attackers could alter firewall configurations, redirect traffic, or install persistent malware. The unauthenticated nature of CVE-2025-6542 makes it especially dangerous for gateways exposed to the internet.
Once compromised, an attacker gains complete control of the underlying operating system. They can intercept network traffic, modify NAT tables, exfiltrate data, or pivot deeper into corporate infrastructure. Because Omada gateways often act as edge devices, successful exploitation could give threat actors command of an entire network segment.
Mitigation Steps
TP-Link has released updated firmware for affected models. Administrators should:
Apply firmware patches immediately.
Restrict web-management access to trusted IPs only.
Disable WAN-side management entirely.
Enforce strong passwords and multifactor authentication.
Review system logs for any signs of unauthorized changes.
Wider Implications for Network Security
This vulnerability highlights an ongoing issue in modern IT environments: the expanding attack surface of network management hardware. Edge devices like Omada gateways bridge trusted and untrusted networks, making them attractive targets for intrusion campaigns.
Security leaders should treat firmware management as part of their continuous vulnerability lifecycle just like patching servers or applications.
TP-Link published its advisory on October 18, 2025, urging customers to update immediately. Firmware updates are available via the Omada support portal. The company has not observed active exploitation but warns that proof-of-concept exploits could emerge soon.
Proactive Defense Recommendations
To prevent similar threats, organizations should:
Implement configuration monitoring to detect unauthorized changes.
Place management interfaces behind VPNs.
Use intrusion detection rules to spot suspicious gateway activity.
Regularly audit network firmware inventories.
Subscribe to vendor advisories for timely alerts.
The Omada vulnerability serves as a reminder that security doesn’t end with endpoints. Gateway devices are the backbone of network control, and a single unpatched flaw can cascade through an organization. Administrators should patch now, isolate management access, and verify configurations to safeguard business continuity.
FAQs
-
Can attackers exploit this without credentials?
Yes. CVE-2025-6542 allows remote unauthenticated access through malformed input. -
Which devices are affected?
Omada ER8411, ER7412-M2, ER707-M2, ER7206, ER605, ER706W, ER7212PC, G36, G611, FR365, FR205, FR307-M2. -
Has exploitation been seen in the wild?
No confirmed attacks yet, but the potential risk is severe. -
How do I patch it?
Download the latest firmware from TP-Link’s official site and follow upgrade instructions. -
What other steps should I take?
Restrict management access, review logs, and verify configuration integrity.
One thought on “TP-Link Omada Gateways Hit by Critical Command Injection Flaw”