Tails 6.13 Linux Distro Released with Enhanced Wi-Fi Hardware Detection

The Tails Project has launched Tails 6.13, the latest version of its privacy-centric Linux distribution, introducing improved Wi-Fi troubleshooting tools, updated anonymity software, and fixes for persistent storage and installation workflows.

Targeted at users prioritizing security and anonymity, this release addresses common hardware compatibility challenges while refining the user experience.

Enhanced Wi-Fi Hardware Detection and Diagnostics

A standout feature in Tails 6.13 is its upgraded Tor Connection assistant, which now detects missing Wi-Fi hardware and displays a clear warning: “No Wi-Fi hardware detected”.

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This addresses frequent connectivity issues, particularly with problematic adapters like:

• Marvell Avastar 88W8897 (common in Microsoft Surface Pro devices), which may require disabling MAC anonymization.
• RTL8723BE PCIe adapters, where unstable connections can be mitigated by boot options like rtl8723be.ant_sel=1 or rtl8723be.ips=0.
• Broadcom 43602 chipsets, which may loop authentication prompts unless connected via an iPhone hotspot with Maximize Compatibility enabled.

Users can identify their hardware using:

bashlspci -v | grep "Network controller"  

Software and Security Updates

Tails 6.13 integrates Tor Browser 14.0.7 (based on Firefox 128.0.8esr with backported security patches) and Tor client 0.4.8.14.

These updates ensure compatibility with the latest anonymity protocols and mitigate vulnerabilities exposed in earlier versions.

Critical Bug Fixes

• Persistent Storage Creation: Partitioning errors during first-time boots—preventing Persistent Storage setup on new USB sticks—are now detected and resolved.
• Software Installation Dialogues: The Configure and Show Log buttons in failure notifications (e.g., “The installation of your additional software failed”) now function correctly, aiding troubleshooting.

Installation and Upgrade Paths

• Automatic Upgrade: Available for Tails 6.0+ users via the built-in updater.
• Manual Upgrade: Required if automatic updates fail or systems won’t boot post-upgrade.
• Fresh Installs: New USB stick installations follow standard procedures but erase Persistent Storage.
• Options include:
  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux CLI.

Known Limitations and Workarounds

Broadcom adapters requiring proprietary wl driver (via broadcom-sta-dkms) remain incompatible due to Tails’ strict free software policy.

For devices like the Lenovo Legion Y530, adding modprobe.blacklist=ideapad_laptop to boot options restores Wi-Fi functionality.

Availability and Support

Tails 6.13 is available for direct download as a USB image or ISO.

Users are urged to upgrade promptly to maintain security. For assistance, consult Tails’ support portal.

This release underscores Tails’ commitment to balancing usability with uncompromising privacy, ensuring even novice users can navigate its security-focused ecosystem effectively.

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