Introduction

In recent years, network security solutions have grown to include IPsec as a critical component of secure network architecture design. One primary objective of this publication is therefore to provide the reader with a basic working knowledge of IPsec on various Cisco routing and switching platforms and an understanding of the different components of the Cisco IPsec implementation. This book covers successful implementation of IPsec in a variety of network topologies. This book views IPsec as an emerging requirement in most major vertical markets (service provider, enterprise financial, government), explaining the need for increased information authentication, confidentiality, and non repudiation for secure transmission of confidential data (government records, financial data, billing information).

The primary development objective of this book is to create a work that aids network architects, administrators, and managers in their efforts to integrate IPsec VPN technology into their existing IP infrastructures. The focus is on IPsec deployments in Cisco network environments, from simple site-to-site virtual private network (VPN) configurations to comprehensive VPN strategies, including architectural redundancy and interoperability.