cyberstrikeus 5.10 Ensure that the host's network namespace is not shared (Manual)
Profile Applicability
- Level 1 - Docker - Linux
Description
When the networking mode on a container is set to --net=host, the container is not placed inside a separate network stack. Effectively, applying this option instructs Docker to not containerize the container's networking. The consequence of this is that the container lives "outside" in the main Docker host and has full access to its network interfaces.
Rationale
Selecting this option is potentially dangerous. It allows the container process to open reserved low numbered ports in the way that any other root process can. It also allows the container to access network services such as D-bus on the Docker host. A container process could potentially carry out undesired actions, such as shutting down the Docker host. This option should not be used unless there is a very specific reason for enabling it.
Impact
None.
Audit Procedure
You should use the command below:
docker ps --quiet --all | xargs docker inspect --format='{{ .Id }}: NetworkMode={{ .HostConfig.NetworkMode }}'
If this returns NetworkMode=host, it means that the --net=host option was passed when the container was started.
Remediation
You should not pass the --net=host option when starting any container.
Default Value
By default, containers connect to the Docker bridge when starting and do not run in the context of the host's network stack.
References
CIS Controls
v8
12.2 Establish and Maintain a Secure Network Architecture
Establish and maintain a secure network architecture. A secure network architecture must address segmentation, least privilege, and availability, at a minimum.
v7
12 Boundary Defense
Boundary Defense