{
  "node_id": "mitre-attack-t1556-004-network-device-authentication",
  "title": "MITRE ATT&CK T1556.004: Network Device Authentication (Enterprise Tactic TA0006 - Credential Access / TA0005 - Defense Evasion / TA0003 - Persistence)",
  "domain": "Cybersecurity",
  "version": "1.0.0",
  "last_updated": "2026-05-25",
  "bluf": "MITRE ATT&CK T1556.004 (Network Device Authentication) is an Enterprise Credential Access and Defense Evasion and Persistence sub-technique of T1556 (Modify Authentication Process). Adversaries may use Patch System Image to hard code a password in the operating system, thus bypassing of native authentication mechanisms for local accounts on network devices. Modify System Image may include implanted code to the operating system for network devices to provide access for adversaries using a specific password. The modification includes a specific password which is implanted in the operating system image via the patch. Affected platforms: Network. MITRE-documented mitigations include M1026 Privileged Account Management, M1032 Multi-factor Authentication. The Center for Threat-Informed Defense maps this technique to NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 controls AC-02, AC-03, AC-05, AC-06, AC-07, AC-20, CA-07, CM-02.",
  "paywall": {
    "status": "LOCKED",
    "unlock_cost_usd": "0.01",
    "skyfire_id": "41779894-ece2-4163-9761-b3b1b76e19b0"
  },
  "crosswalks": {
    "_available_keys": [
      "nist_framework",
      "iso_standard",
      "industry_mapping",
      "mitre_d3fend"
    ],
    "_note": "Full crosswalk values included in vault response"
  },
  "dependencies": [
    "nist-cybersecurity-framework-2-0",
    "iso-27001-2022",
    "nist-sp-800-53-r5",
    "cis-controls-v8",
    "mitre-attack-t1556-modify-authentication-process"
  ],
  "primary_citations_count": 7
}