GnuTLS Removes Questionable Extension
Version 2.0.2 of the GnuTLS security library does without the TLS authorization extension due to threats of patent claims.
The project took this step because the extension is not critical, but it cannot be ruled out that the extension might be patented. The project prefers to avoid any danger ensuing from a lack of clarity concerning patent claims. At the same time, this step will prevent the technology becoming more widespread. The TLS authorization extension was only added to the library in the version released early in September.
At the last minute a company claimed to have applied for a patent on TLS authorization which had been submitted to the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) as a draft standard, says the Free Software Foundation. The IETF had immediately rejected the draft after receiving the notice.
GnuTLS implements the RFC 2246 (Transport Layer Security) TLS standard which is used by many applications for certificate-based encryption. GnuTLS which is released under the LGPLv2 is an alternative to OpenSSL, which is released under the Apache License.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Linux Mint 22.3 Now Available with New Tools
Linux Mint 22.3 has been released with a pair of new tools for system admins and some pretty cool new features.
-
New Linux Malware Targets Cloud-Based Linux Installations
VoidLink, a new Linux malware, should be of real concern because of its stealth and customization.
-
Say Goodbye to Middle-Mouse Paste
Both Gnome and Firefox have proposed getting rid of a long-time favorite Linux feature.
-
Manjaro 26.0 Primary Desktop Environments Default to Wayland
If you want to stick with X.Org, you'll be limited to the desktop environments you can choose.
-
Mozilla Plans to AI-ify Firefox
With a new CEO in control, Mozilla is doubling down on a strategy of trust, all the while leaning into AI.
-
Gnome Says No to AI-Generated Extensions
If you're a developer wanting to create a new Gnome extension, you'd best set aside that AI code generator, because the extension team will have none of that.
-
Parrot OS Switches to KDE Plasma Desktop
Yet another distro is making the move to the KDE Plasma desktop.
-
TUXEDO Announces Gemini 17
TUXEDO Computers has released the fourth generation of its Gemini laptop with plenty of updates.
-
Two New Distros Adopt Enlightenment
MX Moksha and AV Linux 25 join ranks with Bodhi Linux and embrace the Enlightenment desktop.
-
Solus Linux 4.8 Removes Python 2
Solus Linux 4.8 has been released with the latest Linux kernel, updated desktops, and a key removal.