Linux VPN – Better than Windows
Over the past couple of years, I’ve been running Linux on my work laptop. I’m a C++ (among other things) developer, so the tools on Linux are in most cases more mature than the tools on Windows. A constant source of angst was the cisco VPN software that I was forced to use. This software had several problems:
- Kernel Dependent – needs re-compilation after every new kernel release
- Restricted access – You, or a friendly IT person, must have access to a password protected Cisco site to download the software
- Slow to update – The source for the VPN software doesn’t track the kernel source and tool chain changes closely. This means you’ll need to be able to make a few code changes to support a new kernel or compiler occasionally
- PCF file requirements – Again, the friendly IT person has to provide a profile so that you can use the vpn client
Recently, however, I found the NetworkManager-vpnc package for Fedora. It’s an awesome package that automates almost every aspect of VPN connection. Some of the benefits are:
- Packages for your favorite distribution – no more re-compilation
- Integration with NetworkManager – yay!
- Integration with the Gnome Keyring
- BEST – Split tunneling, whether IT allows it or not
Simply install the NetworkManager-vpnc for your distribution, enter the group password and your login credentials, and voila!
If you don’t know the group password, you can discover it by using this handy website:
cisco vpnclient password decoder
I hope this helps – Happy VPN!
dhw