Vyatta has released a new version of its software-based router/firewall solution. Vyatta 6.1 is the first update to the 6.x line, but is a solid release by itself. The update brings IPv6 certification and new tools for those using cloud solutions.

"Vyatta Version 6.1, the latest release of the company’s open network OS encompassing enterprise-class routing and network security," the company said in a statement.

"With several key advances including IPv6 certification, cloud-specific features and enhanced security, Vyatta continues to expand the applicability of software-based networking across physical, virtual and cloud infrastructures," it added.

The most touted new 'feature' in Vyatta 6.1 is the IPv6 Ready Logo Phase 2 certification which ensures that the Linux distribution is ready to handle IPv6 traffic, even though the technology is far from commonplace even now.

The company says that Vyatta 6.1 is the first software-based router to get the certification. While most users don't need support for IPv6 at this point, since pure IPv6 communications are fairly rare, it does ensure that customers and users are ready to make the switch if they choose to.

The certification only covers the Subscription Edition of Vyatta 6.1, but the same technology is also present in the free Core Edition.

Vyatta 6.1 also comes with "Cloud Bridging" which enables separate networks to be merged allowing machines on both networks to communicate as if they were on the same local network.

The company says that this comes in handy in several scenarios, it makes it easier to migrate applications from one physical location to another or to migrate to a cloud infrastructure.

Vyatta has also signed a partnership with online security company Sourcefire to offer intrusion prevention services to its customers, along with the regular set of services and support.

Vyatta 6.1 is available for download here on Softpedia.