Segmentation Offload Vulnerability in Linux Kernel Affecting IBM Power Systems Adapters

CVE-2026-46273

What is CVE-2026-46273?

A segmentation offload vulnerability in the Linux kernel affects certain IBM Power Systems physical adapters, which do not support segmentation offload when the Maximum Segment Size (MSS) is less than 224 bytes. Attempting to send packets with smaller MSS can cause the adapter to freeze, halting all network traffic until a manual reset is performed. This issue has been addressed by implementing a check to disable Generic Segmentation Offload (GSO) for packets with small MSS, ensuring that the network stack falls back to software segmentation. This preventative measure helps maintain normal transmission without adapter freezing under specific conditions, reinforcing the stability and reliability of network operations.

References