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2013: Mobile First, Laravel Migration

· 3 min read
Dr. Nima Golsharifi
OrbVPN CEO & Founder

2013 brought two major developments to OrbVPN: our expansion into mobile platforms and the migration of our backend to Laravel. These changes weren't just technical upgrades – they were responses to how people increasingly rely on mobile devices for sensitive communications.

Mobile Evolution​

The launch of our iOS and Android apps marked a crucial evolution. We saw journalists and activists increasingly depending on mobile devices in the field. Our mobile apps needed to be as secure as our desktop clients while being even more reliable in challenging conditions.

Laravel Migration​

Moving our backend to Laravel was a major undertaking. This decision was driven by our need for:

  • Better API management
  • Enhanced user authentication
  • Improved billing systems
  • More robust service management

User Experience​

We focused heavily on mobile user experience:

  • One-tap connection features
  • Automatic server selection
  • Battery optimization
  • Connection stability in poor network conditions

Infrastructure Growth​

Our infrastructure continued to expand:

  • New server locations worldwide
  • Enhanced mobile-optimized servers
  • Improved connection routing
  • Better handling of unstable connections

Security Enhancements​

Mobile brought new security challenges:

  • Enhanced protection against mobile-specific threats
  • Improved data leak prevention
  • Better battery-efficient encryption
  • Stronger authentication methods

The Invitation System Evolves​

Our invitation-based system adapted to mobile, making it easier for trusted users to extend access to others while maintaining our security standards. This proved especially valuable in regions where secure communication tools were increasingly restricted.

Looking Forward​

As we enter 2014, our focus is clear:

  • Further mobile app refinement
  • Enhanced protocol security
  • Expanded server network
  • Improved user interface

A Personal Note​

Mobility is crucial for those working in sensitive situations. This year's focus on mobile platforms wasn't just about following tech trends – it was about providing security tools that match how people actually work in the field.

Watching users adopt our mobile apps, especially in regions with strong internet restrictions, reinforced the importance of accessible security tools. Every successful connection represents someone's ability to communicate freely and safely.

To our development team who managed both the Laravel migration and mobile app development: your dedication to both security and usability has been remarkable. To our users who trusted us during these transitions: thank you for your patience and valuable feedback.

The addition of mobile platforms and a more robust backend has strengthened our ability to serve those who need secure communication the most. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to our core mission: protecting privacy and enabling free communication, now across all devices.

Nima Golsharifi
Founder, OrbVPN