The kernel has been upgraded to Linux version 6.12.34, which enhances hardware support, performance, and security. In addition, the GCC compiler suite has been updated to version 15, allowing for further optimization across the IPFire distribution.
A notable improvement is the visibility of active WireGuard connections on the web user interface dashboard, facilitating easier monitoring of VPN connections. Performance enhancements from Linux 6.13 have been backported, significantly increasing TCP throughput over WireGuard tunnels. Italian researchers have also contributed to removing throughput bottlenecks, enabling each WireGuard device to operate on independent kernel threads, thereby maximizing CPU core usage.
The text console has undergone modernization by transitioning to the Linux Direct Rendering Manager (DRM), which enhances compatibility with contemporary graphics hardware and improves visual clarity on high-resolution displays. However, this upgrade will only apply to new installations and not affect existing ones.
Additional updates include improvements in IPsec cryptography with post-quantum key exchanges, enhancements to OpenVPN client configuration, and adjustments to the IP Blocklist feature allowing for the downloading of empty lists. Several obscure bugs have been addressed, and visual improvements have been made to the Pakfire web UI.
Updated packages include critical software components such as ClamAV, dnsdist, Git, and Samba, among others, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and security patches.
In summary, IPFire 2.29 - Core Update 196 not only strengthens the performance and security of the platform but also enhances user experience with its modernized interface and improved monitoring capabilities. This update showcases continued commitment to aligning with technological advancements and user needs in network security. Moving forward, users can expect ongoing improvements and new features as the IPFire team continues to innovate and respond to community feedback
IPFire 2.29 - Core Update 196 released
IPFire 2.29 - Core Update 196 is now available, following the introduction of WireGuard. The update includes improvements to the IPFire kernel, updated toolchain, a modernised console, and bug and security fixes. The kernel has been rebased to Linux 6.12.34, bringing improved hardware support, performance, and security enhancements. GCC, IPFire's main compiler suite, has been updated to version 15. WireGuard connections are now displayed on the dashboard of the web user interface, making it easier to monitor VPN connections. Performance improvements from Linux 6.13 have been backported to IPFire's kernel, increasing TCP throughput over WireGuard tunnels. Researchers from Italy have also removed bottlenecks in the kernel that have limited throughput over multiple WireGuard tunnels. The text console has been modernized by migrating it to use the Linux Direct Rendering Manager (DRM), providing faster mode-setting, improved performance, and better support for multi-GPU and embedded graphics environments.
