ZyXEL Communications 202H User Manual

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Prestige 202H User’s Guide 
26-2 
VPN/IPSec Setup 
From the main menu, enter 27 to display the first VPN/IPSec menu (shown next). 
Figure 26-2 Menu 27 VPN/IPSec Setup 
26.2 IPSec Algorithms 
The ESP and AH protocols are necessary to create a Security Association (SA), the foundation of an IPSec 
VPN. An SA is built from the authentication provided by the AH and ESP protocols. The primary function 
of key management is to establish and maintain the SA between systems. Once the SA is established, the 
transport of data may commence. 
26.2.1 AH (Authentication Header) Protocol 
AH protocol (RFC 2402) was designed for integrity, authentication, sequence integrity (replay resistance), 
and non-repudiation but not for confidentiality, for which the ESP was designed.  
In applications where confidentiality is not required or not sanctioned by government encryption restrictions, 
an AH can be employed to ensure integrity. This type of implementation does not protect the information 
from dissemination but will allow for verification of the integrity of the information and authentication of the 
originator. 
26.2.2 ESP (Encapsulating Security Payload) Protocol 
The ESP protocol (RFC 2406) provides encryption as well as some of the services offered by AHESP 
authenticating properties are limited compared to the AH due to the non-inclusion of the IP header 
information during the authentication process. However, ESP is sufficient if only the upper layer protocols 
need to be authenticated. 
An added feature of the ESP is payload padding, which further protects communications by concealing the 
size of the packet being transmitted. 
 
 
                          Menu 27 – VPN/IPSec Setup 
                  1. IPSec Summary 
                  2. SA Monitor 
                  3. View IPSec Log 
                        Enter Menu Selection Number: