IPSec

Definition: IPSec is an acronym that stands for Internet Protocol Security. It’s a set of protocols established to provide for the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information exchanged on the Internet. The commercial use of the Internet would severely hampered without them. The technique involves both hardware and software and is commonly used with VPN’s (or virtual private networks). The method uses public key encryption and certificates. The contents of Internet packets, essentially, are encrypted. Both the sender and the retriever must share related information.

Its Relevance: The process outlined above provides for secure data transmission and the exchange of information on the Internet. Information assurance is a necessity when using the Internet. The infrastructure owner would need to initiate processes and procedures to obtain the level of protection provided by Internet Protocol Security. It should be included in the organization’s security policies.