Chapter 18. IEEE 802.1AE

IEEE 802.1AE is a standards-based Layer 2 encryption specification, enabling wire-rate encryption at gigabit (Gb) speeds. It provides for cryptographic confidentiality and integrity of all communications (that is, control, data, and management frames) between two adjacent 802.1AE-capable Layer 2 Ethernet ports. This chapter discusses the trends, challenges, and reasons you need to consider this technology.

Enterprise Trends and Challenges

Many of you might wonder why wire-rate encryption for Layer 2 Ethernet LAN networks? Aren’t the physical security practices and Layer 7 application security measures enough to address the vulnerability of unauthorized access to sensitive information? The reality: No. Throughout this ...

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