Monday, September 22, 2008

OpenVPN and Vista (32 and 64 bit)

Since OpenVPN creates a network interface, it needs essentially a software-backed network driver. Linux uses tun and tap drivers. Windows also uses a tap driver, but it's provided by the OpenVPN project. Back with Windows XP, this wasn't an issue; all installing an unsigned 3rd party required was clicking a "Continue" button. Vista doesn't allow this; it requires signed drivers, but a new certificate authority can be installed, though the process isn't for end users.

Luckily, starting with OpenVPN 2.1, OpenVPN has signed drivers for both 32 and 64 bit versions of Vista. The only headache is noticing that the download page lists the 2.1, a release candidate, between the latest stable version and legacy versions.

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