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Vulnerabilities

CVE-2026-85806: Remote Code Execution in Windows Network Policy Server

Microsoft identified a critical remote code execution flaw in Network Policy Server (NPS) that could allow attackers to run arbitrary code on unpatched Windows Server systems. Systems with NPS enabled are vulnerable. Defenders should apply the latest patch, disable NPS if unused, and monitor for suspicious activity.

What happened

Microsoft disclosed CVE-2026-85806, a remote code execution vulnerability in the Network Policy Server (NPS) component of Windows Server. The flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to send a specially crafted request to the NPS service and execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges.

Impact

Any Windows Server installation that has NPS enabled and is not patched is at risk. Attackers could gain full control of the host, pivot to other systems, or exfiltrate data. The vulnerability is rated CVSS 9.8 (Critical).

What to do

  • Verify if NPS is installed and enabled on your servers.
  • Apply the latest cumulative update for Windows Server that contains the NPS fix.
  • If NPS is not required, disable or uninstall the feature.
  • Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of the NPS port.
  • Enable logging for NPS and monitor for anomalous connection attempts.

Mitigation

Microsoft recommends installing the cumulative update as soon as possible. Until the patch is applied, consider blocking inbound traffic to the NPS port from untrusted networks using firewall rules or Azure Network Security Groups.

Microsoft has acknowledged the vulnerability and released a patch. No additional exploit code is publicly available.

NPS CVE-2026-85806 Remote Code Execution Windows Server Patch Security Update

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