Stable version 1.0 of Hamachi VPN software released

The Windows version of the Hamachi VPN software has been released in the stable version 1.0. The new version, announced some weeks ago by its maker LogMeIn and now actually available, can work behind web proxies and via SSL connections, its changelog reports. The program settings interface has also been reworked.

The software maker has included a free 30-day test licence for Hamachi premium services in the program package: LogMeIn is offering Hamachi in both a free but functionally restricted version as well as a commercial premium variant. The two offer different administrative possibilities and numbers of users. The software is also available for the Linux and Mac OS X operating systems, although in both cases it is still in beta.

LogMeIn acquired Hamachi maker Applied Networking in August 2006. At the time, LogMeIn reported intentions of integrating the VPN software into its own proprietary remote maintenance software. Hamachi made a name for itself in the online gaming world through its quick setup and uncomplicated use, and has built up a user base of roughly five million users.

The software switches together several internet hosts into a virtual network: along the way it encrypts the connections and works around firewalls and NAT routers. This allows the network to operate like a closed user group, with no contact to other LANs. Computers with the VPN software can communicate with one another at any time using the provided connection and can also access other Hamachi stations where network sharing has been implemented, for example.

(ehe)