Apple @ Work: Will Lightway in Rust replace OpenVPN as the default VPN protocol?

Apple @ Work: Will Lightway in Rust replace OpenVPN as the default VPN protocol?

  • 20.03.2025 14:00
  • 9to5mac.com
  • Keywords: AI, Startup, Market Growth

Apple @ Work explores whether Lightway in Rust could replace OpenVPN as the default VPN protocol. Rewritten in Rust for enhanced security and performance, Lightway aims to address modern VPN needs with faster speeds and better battery life.

Apple ServicesAAPLsentiment_satisfied
open_in_newOriginal article

Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is mentioned as part of the Apple @ Work series and in relation to HomeKit-compatible products.

ExpressVPN

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

ExpressVPN developed Lightway, a modern VPN protocol, and upgraded it using Rust for enhanced security and performance.

Context

Analysis of Apple @ Work: Lightway in Rust as a Potential Replacement for OpenVPN

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Introduction of Lightway: Launched by ExpressVPN in 2020, initially developed in C.
  • Rewrite in Rust: Transitioned to Rust in a significant update, marking the first major VPN protocol rewrite in years.
  • Performance Benefits:
    • Faster connection speeds.
    • Lower latency.
    • Improved battery life on mobile devices.
  • Security Enhancements:
    • Eliminates memory-related vulnerabilities common in C.
    • Offers stronger protection against exploits due to Rust's memory safety features.

Market Implications

  • Positioning as Industry Standard: ExpressVPN aims to establish Lightway in Rust as a contender for OpenVPN and WireGuard, potentially becoming the new industry norm.
  • Impact on Competition: Encourages other VPN providers to adopt similar technologies, fostering innovation and competition in the market.
  • Enterprise Adoption: Businesses may benefit from more secure and efficient VPN solutions, enhancing remote access security.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Strategic Advantage: ExpressVPN's move to Rust provides a technological edge, emphasizing performance and security.
  • Adoption Barriers: Competitors may face challenges in transitioning to new protocols but could follow suit to maintain relevance.

Long-term Effects and Industry Impact

  • Rust Adoption: Likely increase in Rust usage for network protocol development due to its benefits.
  • Innovation Driver: Could lead to a wave of technological advancements in VPN protocols, potentially lowering costs through shared standards.

Conclusion

The shift to Lightway in Rust represents a significant leap in VPN technology, offering enhanced security and performance. This move positions ExpressVPN at the forefront of innovation, with implications for both consumer and enterprise markets, likely influencing broader industry trends towards more secure and efficient solutions.