IPSec / IKEv2 VPN Protocol: What is it and how does it work?

IKEv2, short for Internet Key Exchange version 2, stands out as one of the swiftest VPN protocols and is frequently coupled with IPSec, often referred to as IKEv2/IPSec. It is a VPN protocol that facilitates secure communication between devices over the Internet. It’s designed to establish and manage VPN connections, offering features like encryption, authentication, and key management. Functioning as a tunneling protocol within the IPSec suite, it establishes Security Associations (SA) to ensure secure communication between VPN clients and servers.

How Does the IKEv2 Protocol Work?

IKEv2 heavily relies on IPSec to secure the communication between the VPN customer and server, often referred to as IKEv2/IPSec. In essence, IKEv2/IPSec enables secure communication by facilitating the exchange of encryption keys.

Essentially, IKEv2 creates a security association (SA) that coordinates the use of security keys between the VPN client and server. Once IKEv2 authenticates the SA, it starts a secure tunnel, providing encrypted communication between the two destination points. Utilizing strong 256-bit encryption, IKEv2/IPSec supports a variety of VPN encryption schemes. In addition, it uses the well-known Diffie-Hellman Key Exchange algorithm to secure the exchange of private keys.

IKEv2 also includes features such as Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS) to enhance data integrity and secrecy, uses UDP packets on port 500, and uses X.509 certificates for authentication. Through a process known as security association, IKEv2 identifies both the device and the VPN server, determining the security protocols used to encrypt and decrypt data in the VPN tunnel.

Why is IKEv2 Always Connected with IPSec?

IKEv2 and IPsec go hand-in-hand thanks to a partnership between Microsoft and Cisco, resulting in a seamless integration that improves speed. IKEv2 runs in the user space, accessing the data store to obtain specific configuration details, while IPsec runs in the core, enabling faster data processing.

Together, IKEv2 establishes a security association with the server using a minimal number of data packets and then passes the basic details of the connection to IPsec to encrypt the traffic. IPsec, operating at a deeper system level, encrypts traffic based on the established security associations. As for why it is commonly referred to as IKEv2 rather than IKEv2/IPsec, it is because IKEv2, introduced in 2005, is a more recent development compared to the older IKEv1 and IPsec, which date back to 1995.

Is IKEv2 VPN Protocol Safe?

To be short – yes! The security of a VPN protocol depends on its usage. IKEv2 itself comes without any flaws. If properly configured by a VPN provider, it is secure. IKEv2 is based on IKEv1, extending its functionality to meet modern needs. It uses Diffie-Hellman key exchange and advanced encryption such as AES, which provides strong protection. In addition, IKEv2 includes Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS), which generates new keys for each connection, specific to each session.

Key Features of IKEv2 VPN

• Minimal Delays: IKEv2 operates on UDP port 500, making it suitable for network apps that require low latency, ensuring fast responses for users.
• Prompt Speed: Compared to protocols like L2TP and PPTP, IKEv2 offers faster speeds due to its modern architecture and efficient message exchange system.
• High Security: By using certificate-based authorization, IKEv2 ensures that no action is taken until the identity of the requestor is verified, which increases the overall level of security.
• Stable Connection: IKEv2 maintains a consistent VPN connection even when switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data networks, ensuring uninterrupted access.
• Perfect Forward Secrecy: IKEv2’s PFS feature guarantees the confidentiality and integrity of data by preventing key duplication and session expiration, enhancing privacy.
  

How to Setup IKEv2?

1. Sign Up to ZoogVPN
2. Download ZoogVPN for your device
3. Launch the app and select IKEv2 VPN protocol in the app’s settings
4. Navigate back to connection screen and click the VPN connection button
5. Enjoy a secure and fast IKEv2 VPN connection!

Get ZoogVPN

FAQ

1. Is IKEv2 better than OpenVPN?

Choosing between IKEv2 and OpenVPN depends on your priorities. IKEv2 is known for its high speed and stability, especially in networks where users may switch between different types of connections (such as from Wi-Fi to mobile data). However, if you prefer overall security and functionality, OpenVPN may be better, especially when combined with strong encryption methods. At this point, the best option depends on individual needs and preferences.

2. Is IKEv2 safer than IKEv1?

IKEv2 surpasses IKEv1 in safety thanks to its integration of EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol), offering enhanced security measures. Additionally, it offers improved speed and overall performance compared to its forerunner.

3. Is IKEv2 suitable for streaming and gaming?

Yes, IKEv2 is well suited for streaming and gaming due to its low delays and high speed. It provides a smooth and uninterrupted internet connection, making it popular among users engaged in bandwidth-hungry activities.

4. Can I use IKEv2 with ZoogVPN?

Yes, ZoogVPN offers support for the IKEv2 protocol, allowing users to take advantage of fast and secure connections. By choosing IKEv2 with ZoogVPN, users can enjoy reliable VPN services customized to their privacy and security needs.

• 
  Diana Bestaieva

  Content Writer at ZoogVPN. Diana deeply explores the newest technologies and shares valuable insights engagingly and comprehensively. Keeping up with the tech news, she makes in-depth content, explaining complex concepts with ease.