What is provided by IPSec?

IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) is a framework of open standards used to secure Internet Protocol (IP) communications by authenticating and encrypting each IP packet of a communication session. It provides a means of establishing a secure channel over the internet, ensuring that data can be transmitted securely between devices.

The primary functions of IPSec include:

1. Encryption: IPSec encrypts the data being transmitted, converting it into a secure format that can only be read by someone who has the correct decryption key. This protects the confidentiality of the information as it travels across the network.

2. Authentication: IPSec includes mechanisms for verifying that the data comes from a legitimate source. This is achieved through various methods, such as hashing and digital signatures. The authentication ensures that the data has not been altered in transit and confirms the identities of the communicating parties.

By combining both encryption and authentication, IPSec provides a robust framework to secure IP communications against eavesdropping and tampering, which is crucial for maintaining data integrity and confidentiality over potentially untrusted networks.

On the other hand, the other options do not relate directly to what IPSec provides. Error detection and correction pertains to ensuring data integrity through checksums and acknowledgment protocols, which are