# LibreSSL 4.4 released with faster SHA3 performance

> **Key takeaway:** LibreSSL 4.4 introduces optimized SHA-3 algorithms and removes compromised eMudhra certificates.

**Published:** 2026-10-23T09:55:46+00:00 
**Source:** Phoronix Benchmarks & Drivers 
**Category:** kernel-os 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/libressl-44-released-with-faster-sha3-performance.html 

## Summary
The OpenBSD developers have released LibreSSL 4.4, the latest version of the OpenSSL fork. This update focuses on performance improvements for SHA-3 and security hardening by removing the compromised eMudhra emSign ECC Root CA - G3. The release also includes various bug fixes and portability improvements.

## Performance and Security Updates
- **SHA-3 performance**: Improved through the use of an unrolled and interleaved algorithm.
- **Security**: Removed the eMudhra emSign ECC Root CA - G3 due to weak private keys; added uncompromised intermediate certificates for interoperability.
- **General improvements**: Includes Microsoft Windows fixes, code cleanup, and portability enhancements.

## Why it matters
The removal of compromised certificates improves the security posture for users relying on LibreSSL for TLS/SSL operations.