If your CNC uses Rockwell’s ControlLogix, a single exploit could slash your OEE in minutes. From spindle stop to scrapped parts and cost thousands before IT even knows there’s a breach.
CISA issued advisory [ICSA-25-226-28] — marking a critical, remotely exploitable flaw (CVSS v4: 9.3) in Rockwell ControlLogix Ethernet Modules
CISA just flagged a critical vulnerability in Rockwell ControlLogix Ethernet modules. If your CNC cell or retrofit uses ControlLogix/PNC, this isn’t a networking panic, it’s a vulnerability management job. Unpatched controllers become a path to downtime, corrupted programs, and a hit to Availability, Performance, and Quality (your OEE).
Check Your CNC Now — Before Hackers Do
If your shop uses ControlLogix, do this now:
• Find — Inventory each ControlLogix Ethernet module (model/slot and firmware)
• Assess — Confirm firmware is patched to 12.001+
• Fix — Patch to the safe firmware; until then disable unused services/ports/USB
• Verify — Re-check versions; require per-user, MFA, time-boxed remote access.
• Monitor — Watch controller logs and sudden OEE dips (availability hits = real money)CISA Advisory: Vulnerability in ControlLogix Ethernet Modules (CVSS 9.3)
Immediate Fixes to Protect Your Shop
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Identify any CNC or machine using ControlLogix listed below | Exposes whether your shop is at risk from the vulnerability |
| Segregate controllers from internet exposure | Prevents remote malicious access without warning |
| Patch firmware to version 12.001 or newer | Eliminates the CISA-flagged exploit Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Ethernet Modules |
| Monitor network traffic and logs for anomalies | Spot covert manipulation before it damages your output |
AFFECTED PRODUCTS
The following versions of Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Ethernet Modules are affected:
- 1756-EN2T/D: Version 11.004 or below
- 1756-EN2F/C: Version 11.004 or below
- 1756-EN2TR/C: Version 11.004 or below
- 1756-EN3TR/B: Version 11.004 or below
- 1756-EN2TP/A: Version 11.004 or below
Does this mean we should air-gap our CNCs?
No. Use segmentation + patch + least-privilege remote access. Air-gapping kills visibility and productivity. CISA’s guidance emphasizes patching and compensating controls for ControlLogix Ethernet modules (CVSS v4 9.3, remotely exploitable).
How do I know if we even use ControlLogix?
Check your cell or retrofit panel for 1756-EN2/EN3/EN4-series Ethernet modules or a ControlLogix 55xx/5580 controller/chassis label. Rockwell specs confirm embedded Ethernet on 5580 and communication modules on 5570/others.
What’s the fastest way to reduce risk this week?
1) Patch affected modules per the advisory
2) Segment OT from office IT
3) Lock down ports/USB/remote access
4) Alert on controller anomalies and OEE drops that signal availability hits.
This Isn’t “Networking.” It’s Vulnerability Management for OT
- Inventory & Baseline: which chassis, what firmware, where it sits.
- Risk Map: tie each asset to the advisory/CVEs; prioritize exposed versions.
- Patch or Compensate: vendor firmware first; otherwise segment the cell/VLAN and allow-list traffic.
- Secure Access: per-user, MFA, time-boxed, fully logged; kill shared creds.
- Continuous Monitoring: controller alarms + network visibility; alert on config drift.
- OT IR Plan: isolate the cell, restore a known-good program, validate, return to service.
OEE Impact
Not Just IT, But Production
Unmanaged risks like this hits your Availability (machine downtime), Performance (speed disruption), and Quality (scrap spikes) directly reducing OEE and cutting into your bottom line. This can cost between 1-15 percentage points on your OEE.
