1.6.3 Ensure Exec Timeout for Console Sessions is set

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Information

Verify device is configured to automatically disconnect console sessions after a defined maximum session time, set in minutes.

Note there are 3 different timeout values:

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absolute-timeout: terminate the connection after the specified time has elapsed, regardless of whether the connection is being used at the time of termination.

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exec-timeout: If no user input is detected during the interval, the EXEC facility returns the terminal to the idle state and disconnects the incoming session

-

session-timeout: Traditionally the VTY can be used for other features than EXEC (CLI), e.g. terminal server, PAD, async lines etc. The session-timeout applies to any sessions running to/through the router on VTY. Use the session-timeout command to set the interval that the Cisco IOS XR software waits for traffic before closing the connection to a remote device and returning the terminal to an idle state.

For management access we need to configure the exec-timeout.

This prevents unauthorized users from misusing abandoned sessions. For example, if the network administrator disconnects leaving a console session open, that session will remain open (in the same state and privilege level) for the next person who connects a console cable to the device.

A shorter timeout is usually desired, but this can be extended for longer-running operations such as debug sessions or software upgrades.

Solution

vty-pool default 0 4 line-template default
line default
exec-timeout 10 0

Impact:

10 minutes is the default exec-timeout for many Cisco Network Operating systems. You should determine the best value for your organization and your work habits.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/10473