CVE-2026-32161 – Windows Native WiFi Miniport Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
“A nearby attacker on the same wireless network should never be able to turn WiFi traffic into remote code execution.”
A critical remote code execution vulnerability exists in the Windows Native WiFi Miniport Driver due to a race condition and use-after-free flaw. An unauthorized attacker on the same network segment could exploit the vulnerability under specific timing and network conditions to execute code on affected systems.
CVSS Score: 7.5
SEVERITY: Critical
THREAT:
This vulnerability could allow attackers on the same local or virtual network segment to remotely execute arbitrary code on vulnerable Windows systems. Successful exploitation may lead to endpoint compromise, malware deployment, credential theft, and disruption of wireless-connected environments.
EXPLOITS:
At the time of publication, Microsoft reports that the vulnerability was not publicly disclosed and was not exploited. Exploit Code Maturity is listed as Unproven, and exploitation is assessed as Less Likely.
TECHNICAL SUMMARY:
CVE-2026-32161 is caused by concurrent execution using shared resources with improper synchronization, commonly known as a race condition, along with a use-after-free flaw in the Windows Native WiFi Miniport Driver. The vulnerability occurs when the driver improperly handles memory and synchronization during wireless network operations. An attacker on the same network segment may exploit favorable timing conditions to trigger memory corruption and execute attacker-controlled code.
The attack vector is Adjacent, meaning exploitation is limited to systems connected to the same network segment, switch, or virtual network as the attacker. Microsoft notes that exploitation requires specific network configurations and timing conditions, making reliable exploitation more difficult.
EXPLOITABILITY:
Affected software is the Windows Native WiFi Miniport Driver. Exploitation requires the attacker to be on the same network segment as the target system. No privileges or user interaction are required.
BUSINESS IMPACT:
Wireless infrastructure vulnerabilities can expose enterprise endpoints, roaming devices, and remote work environments to compromise. Successful exploitation may allow attackers to gain footholds within local network segments and potentially move deeper into enterprise systems.
WORKAROUND:
No mitigations or workarounds are listed. Organizations should apply the official Microsoft security update as soon as possible.
URGENCY:
This vulnerability should be prioritized for wireless-enabled enterprise systems because it allows remote code execution without authentication or user interaction. Although exploitation requires adjacent network access and complex timing conditions, wireless attack paths remain attractive targets in shared office, campus, and public network environments.
Key Details
- Affected Product
- Microsoft Windows 10 1607
- Attack Vector
- Adjacent
- Attack Complexity
- High
- Privileges Required
- None
- User Interaction
- None
- CWE Classification
- CWE-362