The latest release of IPFire, version 2.29 Core Update 200, has been launched, introducing significant updates for this open-source hardened Linux firewall distribution. This update comes nearly two months after the previous update and is a stable enhancement featuring various improvements, updated components, and essential security fixes.
A key highlight of this release is support for the long-term supported Linux 6.18 LTS kernel series, which is expected to enhance network throughput, reduce latency, and improve packet filtering capabilities. Additionally, this release marks the debut of the IPFire Domain Blocklist (IPFire DBL), a community-driven solution aimed at blocking domains, thereby providing users more control over their network. This implementation is integrated into both the URL Filter and the Suricata Intrusion Prevention System.
Michael Tremer from IPFire noted the necessity for a solid source of domains for the web proxy, especially following the retirement of the Shalla list, expressing the project’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive domain blocking resource.
The update also enhances the Suricata Intrusion Prevention System by allowing it to automatically clean up unused signatures and include more detailed alert information, such as hostnames, in email notifications and PDF reports.
Among other enhancements, IPFire 2.29 Core Update 200 reintroduces support for 802.11a/g wireless networks, updates OpenVPN configuration management, improves the Unbound DNS proxy by launching one thread per CPU core, and optimizes PPP support to reduce unnecessary LCP keep-alive packets when traffic is absent.
For those eager to explore the changes, comprehensive details can be found in the release announcement. Users can download the update from the official website as an ISO or USB image suitable for both 64-bit (x86_64) and ARM64 (AArch64) architectures. Existing IPFire installations can be updated without requiring a new installation.