IPSec Architecture

What is IPSec?

Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) is a suite of protocols that secures IP communications by providing:

• Confidentiality (Encryption)
• Authentication
• Data Integrity
• Anti-Replay Protection
• Secure Key Exchange

Unlike HTTPS, which protects only web traffic, IPSec secures all IP traffic between two endpoints.

Because IPSec operates at the Network Layer (Layer 3) of the OSI Model, applications do not need to be modified to benefit from its protection.

Why IPSec is Important

Organizations use IPSec because it:

• Creates secure VPN tunnels over the public Internet.
• Protects sensitive business data.
• Supports branch office connectivity.
• Enables secure hybrid cloud networking.
• Is widely supported by routers, firewalls, and cloud providers.

Most enterprise Site-to-Site VPNs use IPSec.