Glossary

Preshared Key

configured to create a new ISAKMP/MM SA for each IPSec/QM negotiation). HP-UX IPSec does not support PFS for keys only (the ISAKMP/MM SA is re-used for multiple IPSec/QM negotiations, with a new Diffie-Hellman key exchange for each IPSec/QM negotiation).

Preshared Key An ASCII string agreed upon by two systems for encryption or authentication. HP-UX IPSec supports the use of preshared keys for IKE (Primary) authentication (authenticating the peer’s identity when generating the dynamic keys with Diffie-Hellman).

QM See Quick Mode.

Quick Mode (QM) The second phase (Phase Two) of IKE negotiations, which establishes IPSec/QM Security Associations (SAs).

RSA (Rivest, Shamir, and Adelman) Public/private key cryptosystem that can be used for privacy (encryption) and authentication (signatures). For encryption, system A can send data encrypted with system B's public key. Only system B's private key can decrypt the data. For authentication, system A sends data with a signature - a digest or hash encrypted with system A's private key. To verify, system B uses system A's public key to decrypt the signature and compare the decrypted hash or digest to the digest or hash that it computes for the message.

RSA Signatures A method used in IKE authentication to verify the identity of the peer system using security certificates and public/private key cryptography.

SHA1 (Secure Hash Algorithm-1). Authentication algorithm that generates a 160-bit message digest using a 160-bit key. IPSec truncates the message digest to 96 bits.

Transforms IPSec transforms are portions of IPSec polices. The transforms define the action(s) to be taken on the data, such as passing the data in clear text, discarding the data, encrypting the data using ESP, or authenticating the data using AH. They encapsulate the algorithm information needed to authenticate, encrypt and optionally compress packets during data transfer.

SA See Security Association.

Security Association (SA) A secure communication channel and its parameters, such as encryption and authentication method, keys and lifetime.

Security Certificate See Certificate.

Security Parameters Index (SPI) A numerical index used to identify a Security Association (SA) on the receiving system. Each SPI must be unique on the receiving system.

SPI See Security Parameters Index.

308

Glossary

Page 312
Image 312
HP UX IPSec Software manual Preshared Key

UX IPSec Software specifications

HP-UX IPSec Software is an integral component of the HP-UX operating system, providing robust and secure communication capabilities for enterprise environments. As organizations increasingly rely on secure networking solutions, HP-UX IPSec stands out with its comprehensive set of features and technologies designed to safeguard sensitive data.

One of the core characteristics of HP-UX IPSec Software is its implementation of the Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) framework. This technology secures Internet Protocol (IP) communications through authentication and encryption, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data transmissions. By leveraging IPSec, HP-UX provides a secure method for connecting remote users and secure sites over untrusted networks, such as the internet.

A notable feature of the HP-UX IPSec Software is its support for both transport and tunnel modes. The transport mode encrypts only the payload of the IP packet, whereas the tunnel mode encapsulates the entire IP packet within a new packet, allowing for secure communications between entire networks. This flexibility enables organizations to tailor their security strategies based on specific use cases and requirements.

HP-UX IPSec also emphasizes interoperability and compliance with industry standards. The software supports various encryption algorithms and authentication methods, including those defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). This commitment to open standards ensures that HP-UX can seamlessly integrate with a diverse range of networking infrastructures and security solutions.

In addition to its security features, HP-UX IPSec Software offers administration tools that simplify the configuration and management of IPSec policies. The software includes a user-friendly command-line interface, allowing system administrators to specify security associations and policies efficiently. Moreover, comprehensive logging and monitoring capabilities help organizations keep track of their security posture and detect potential vulnerabilities.

Another essential characteristic of HP-UX IPSec Software is its scalability. Designed to accommodate the needs of both small and large enterprises, it can handle increased loads and adapt to changing security demands without compromising performance.

In conclusion, HP-UX IPSec Software stands as a vital solution for organizations seeking to protect their data transmissions over IP networks. With its core technologies, such as transport and tunnel modes, adherence to industry standards, user-friendly administration tools, and scalability, it provides a formidable layer of security in an increasingly interconnected world. This makes it a preferred choice for enterprises aiming to enhance their network security frameworks.