The latest Freebox update includes the availability of the new WP3 security protocol as well as performance improvements in wireless links.
After the hardware, make way for the software. Now that Free grabbed public attention in early July with the presentation of its brand new Freebox Pop, and at the same time put forward themodular approach to its devices, the Internet service provider now deploy an update for most of its boxes. Objective: to provide a better, safer Wi-Fi connection.
Increased link security
The update, stamped 4.2.0, concerns the following Freebox models: Revolution, Mini, One, Delta and Pop. Available since July 13, it acts essentially on two levels, by making available the latest WP3 security protocol, who was certified in 2018 by the Wi-Fi Alliance consortium, and by improving the performance of Wi-Fi in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.
« WPA3 Adds New Features to Simplify Wi-Fi Security, Provide Stronger Authentication, and Increase Cryptographic Degree “Wrote in a press release the Wi-Fi Alliance. It aims to succeed WPA2, which debuted in 2004, and which found its limits with the flaw Krack, spotted in 2017. Faced with the risks run by wireless networks, an update was required.
In its release notes, Free specifies that this WPA3 protection is available for all the boxes mentioned above, through a mode called “transition”. This, details the ISP, allows simultaneous use on WPA2 and WPA3, depending on the device that connects. A relevant mode, which avoids situations of incompatibility with devices that do not support this new protocol.
Performance announced on the rise
Regarding the quality of the signal itself, which is essential for the stability, range and performance of connections, Free acts on two levels: without going into details, the operator declares to have ” greatly improved »The stability and performance of Wi-Fi N (2.4 GHz), and the same for Wi-Fi AC (5 GHz), for Freebox Revolution & Mini 4K.
Its customers are invited to check the activation of 802.11n mode and WPA2 / AES protection in the settings of the box. In fact, the increase in signal quality will vary from one dwelling to another, depending on the position of the box in the foyer, the configuration of the premises, the thickness of the walls and other factors that may affect the signal. But Free planned the coup, with an alternative: a Wi-Fi repeater.
The rest of the release notes concern a redesign of parental control, with the arrival of a profile system, the use of QR code to facilitate connection to the Wi-Fi network and performance gains for the IKEv2 VPN server. . To take advantage of the box update, just make sure it has been downloaded and restart the installation.
—
