Open source firewall distribution IPFire has launched its new version 2.29 Core 192, bringing with it various improvements, including the update to the most recent version of the Linux kernel 6.12 LTSThis update introduces significant improvements in performance and compatibility with modern hardware, being one of the most important in recent times.
Among the most relevant changes in this update, the jump from the 6.6 LTS kernel series to the series stands out. Linux 6.12LTSThis new core offers improved TCP traffic management, with optimization that can increase performance by up to 40%, as well as improvements in task scheduling that reduce latency in packet processing and greater compatibility with recent hardware devices.
Key new features in IPFire 2.29 Core 192
In addition to the kernel update, the new version introduces notable improvements in several aspects of the system. These include the addition of a New driver for Realtek 8812au chips, as well as an updated firmware set for Raspberry Pi devices. The latest version of the Raspberry Pi bootloader has also been integrated. Submarine 2024.10, improving compatibility with various platforms.
Improved platform support aligns with the latest innovations in IP Fire 2.29 Core 190, which already showed a focus on security and adaptability.
Another important change is the removing CUPS print serverThe developers have decided to do without this component due to unresolved security issues and lack of maintenance by its maintainers. In addition, most modern printers today have network printing capabilities, which makes this server less relevant.
Other improvements and fixes
The update also brings with it other important optimizations. For example, the service collect, in charge of collecting statistics on the status of IPFire, has been updated to version 5.12.0. Also, the compression library zlib has been replaced by zlib-ng, which will allow for more efficient compression and decompression using modern processors.
In addition, adjustments have been made to the tool speedtest-cli, allowing speed tests to run automatically at specific times. Multiple essential packages have also been updated, along with various improvements to French translation and logo display within the IPFire Captive PortalThis attention to detail is reflected in previous versions such as IP Fire 2.27 Core 160, where significant changes were implemented to improve security and general support.
For those who wish to try this new version, the installation image of IP Fire 2.29 Core 192 is available in the official website of the project. It can be downloaded in format ISO or USB, being compatible with architectures x86_64 y AArch64 (ARM64).
With this update, IPFire reinforces its commitment to security and performance, ensuring a more stable and optimized foundation for those who use this system as a firewall in their networks.