IPFire's latest update brings a complete OpenVPN overhault and improved power saving

IPFire 2.29 Core Update 197 is now available, introducing several core upgrades and security enhancements for users of this open source firewall. The release is built on the Linux 6.12.41 kernel, providing an updated foundation for improved hardware compatibility and security.

A major overhaul comes to OpenVPN, which has now been updated to version 2.6. This brings a simpler method for client configuration export and introduces upgraded cryptography. Removal of the compression feature, previously identified as a potential attack vector, further strengthens the security profile and may affect deployments relying on legacy compression settings.

While these security features have been improved, the update also enables CPU clock down by default. This means systems running IPFire will use less power and emit less heat, which can benefit administrators who are conscious of energy usage or thermal output. Following these under-the-hood changes, the release improves support for the WireGuard virtual private network, enhances the intrusion prevention system, and streamlines backup capabilities, among others.

Finally, this version introduces multiple updated packages, offers new and improved add-ons, and expands language support to include Chinese, making the firewall more accessible to a wider audience.