Cloudflare, one of the tech giants in connectivity and security, has announced two significant updates for its platform. The first is the implementation of MASQUE, an HTTP/3-based protocol, in its popular 1.1.1.1 and WARP applications, promising faster and more stable connections. The second is the general availability of DEX, its digital experience monitoring tool, now equipped with the functionality of Remote Captures.
MASQUE: The Future of Secure Connections
As of today, Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 and WARP applications have adopted MASQUE as the default protocol to secure internet connections. This protocol, developed on QUIC and HTTP/3, represents a significant advance in the way data is encrypted and transmitted over modern networks, especially on mobile devices.
What Makes MASQUE Special?
MASQUE is a cutting-edge protocol designed to enhance the speed and stability of connections. It works by optimizing data transfers through UDPUDP (User Datagram Protocol) is a communication protocol…, offering advantages such as:
- Advanced Encryption: Protects connections from current and future threats, including post-quantum attacks.
- Increased Stability: Keeps connections active even on networks with poor coverage or while switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
- Compatibility with Existing Systems: Emulates standard HTTP traffic, making it easier to adopt in already established infrastructures.
Additionally, MASQUE offers a smoother and safer experience compared to traditional protocols like IPSec or WireGuard, as it leverages the efficiency of HTTP/3 and the versatility of QUIC.
How to Use MASQUE?
In the 1.1.1.1 and WARP apps, the MASQUE protocol is already enabled by default on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. Users can also customize the settings via the advanced menu on mobile devices or by using the CLI on desktops:
warp-cli tunnel protocol set MASQUE
warp-cli tunnel protocol set WireGuard
DEX: Advanced Monitoring with Remote Captures
The second update is the general availability of DEX, Cloudflare’s digital experience monitoring tool. With this update, DEX introduces Remote Captures, a feature that allows IT administrators to collect network traffic data and diagnostic logs directly from user devices.
What Benefits Do Remote Captures Provide?
Remote Captures simplify the diagnosis of network issues, offering advantages such as:
- Detailed Analysis: Administrators can identify bottlenecks and latency issues in real time.
- Enhanced Security: Granular visibility of traffic helps detect and prevent potential threats.
- Performance Optimization: Reduces resolution times and improves user experience.
How It Works:
- Select the device to diagnose from the Cloudflare dashboard.
- Initiate the capture of network data or WARP Diag logs.
- Analyze the collected data with advanced tools to identify the root cause of issues.
This functionality is now available for Cloudflare One customers from the admin panel at:
Zero Trust > DEX > Remote Captures.
Driving a Faster and Safer Internet
With the adoption of MASQUE and the enhancements in DEX, Cloudflare reinforces its commitment to offering advanced tools that improve security, performance, and user experience on the internet. MASQUE promises faster and smoother connections, while DEX allows companies to diagnose network issues more efficiently.
To start using these tools, download the 1.1.1.1 and WARP applications from Cloudflare’s official site. With these updates, the company continues to lead the way in building a more secure and accessible internet for everyone.