WireGuard VPN added to Linux 5.6
The highly anticipated WireGuard VPN is now a part of the official Linux kernel
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Linux users now have another choice when it comes to protecting themselves online asWireGuard VPNhas been added to the Linux kernel in version 5.6.
Up until now, the fast and flexibleVPN, which was designed specifically for Linux implementations, was only available as a third-party addition. However, WireGuard VPN is now available by default with release ofLinux 5.6.
In anannouncement, president and security researcher at Edge Security, Jason Donenfeld explained that future Linux kernels will have WireGuard built-in by default, saying:
“Earlier this evening, Linus released Linux 5.6, which contains our first release of WireGuard. This is quite exciting. It means that kernels from here on out will have WireGuard built-in by default. And for those of you who were scared away prior by the “dOnT uSe tHiS k0de!!1!” warnings everywhere, you now have something more stable to work with.”
WireGuard VPN
WireGuard was originally developed as a replacement for more complexVPN protocolssuch as IPsec and OpenVPN as they can often be difficult to implement. It’s also harder to audit or verify existing protocols because of their large codebases.
As WireGuard VPN consists of around just 4,000 lines of code, as opposed to the 100,000 lines of code that make upOpenVPN, it is much easier for security experts to review and audit it for vulnerabilities.
While WireGuard is now available in Linux 5.6, it will still take some time for the kernel to find its way into other popularLinux distrossuch as Ubuntu, Arch Linux and Linux Mint.
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However, while users of these distros wait for the trickle down effect to occur, WireGuard’s existing compatibility with older versions of some Linux distributions will be maintained.
ViaDecipher
After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.
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