| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
IPSec Modes: Transport and Tunnel (Page 1 of 4) Three different basic implementation architectures can be used to provide IPSec facilities to TCP/IP networks. The choice of which implementation we use, as well as whether we implement in end hosts or routers, impacts the specific way that IPSec functions. Two specific modes of operation are defined for IPSec that are related to these architectures, called transport mode and tunnel mode. IPSec modes are closely related to the function of the two core protocols, the Authentication Header (AH) and Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP). Both of these protocols provide protection by adding to a datagram a header (and possibly other fields) containing security information. The choice of mode does not affect the method by which each generates its header, but rather, changes what specific parts of the IP datagram are protected and how the headers are arranged to accomplish this. In essence, the mode really describes, not prescribes how AH or ESP do their thing. It is used as the basis for defining other constructs, such as security associations (SAs). Lets take a look at how the two modes work.
Home - Table Of Contents - Contact Us The TCP/IP Guide (http://www.TCPIPGuide.com) Version 3.0 - Version Date: September 20, 2005 © Copyright 2001-2005 Charles M. Kozierok. All Rights Reserved. Not responsible for any loss resulting from the use of this site. |