Configuring HP-UX IPSec

Step 1: Configuring Host IPSec Policies

Step 1: Configuring Host IPSec Policies

Host IPSec policies specify HP-UX IPSec behavior for IP packets sent or received by the local system as an end host. Each host IPSec policy includes address specifications used to select the host IPSec policy for a packet, and the action for packets using the policy: pass the packets in clear text, discard the packets, or apply an IPSec transform (AH or ESP) to the packets.

If the host policy is for an end host in a host-to-host tunnel topology or an end host in a host-to-gateway topology, the host policy includes a reference to a tunnel policy.

HP recommends that you use an ipsec_config batch file to configure host IPSec policies.

Policy Order and Selection

When an IPSec system sends a packet or receives a packet for an address on the local system, HP-UX IPSec searches the host IPSec policies according to the value of the priority parameter for each policy and selects the first policy with address, protocol and port specifications that match the packet. HP-UX IPSec then takes the action specified in the selected host IPSec policy.

default Host IPSec Policy

The HP-UX IPSec configuration database includes a host IPSec policy named default. HP-UX IPSec uses the default host IPSec policy for a packet if no other host IPSec policies match the packet. The default host IPSec policy allows packets to pass in clear text. You cannot delete the default host IPSec policy, or modify any argument values except the value for the its behavior (the action argument). Use the following command to change the default host IPSec policy so it discards packets:

ipsec_config add host default -action DISCARD

To change back the behavior of the default host IPSec policy to pass packets in clear text, use the following command:

ipsec_config add host default -action PASS

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HP UX IPSec Software manual Configuring Host IPSec Policies, Policy Order and Selection, Default Host IPSec Policy

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.