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NIST Revises Guide to IPsec VPNs: SP 800-77 Revision 1

NIST has published Special Publication 800-77 Revision 1, "Guide to IPsec VPNs"

Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) is a network layer security control used to protect communications over public networks, encrypt IP traffic between hosts, and create virtual private networks (VPNs). A VPN provides a secure communication mechanism for data and control information between computers or networks, and the Internet Key Exchange (IKE) protocol is most commonly used to establish IPsec-based VPNs.

Since the original publication of NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-77 in 2005, IPsec and IKE protocols have been enhanced, and much operational experience has been gained from the security solutions deployed.

This revision, SP 800-77 Revision 1, contains new security and cryptographic recommendations and requirements with a focus on how IPsec provides network layer security services. The document also describes how organizations can implement IPsec, IKE, and their alternatives under varying circumstances.

Released June 30, 2020, Updated February 3, 2025