A whole computer network contains and works with a chain of many different things and networks. This work requires two or more two computers with an established network.
These networks with which the computers are connected are of three different types- internet, intranet, and extranet. In fact, these methods with which these networks link each other are different too.
IPsec vs GRE
The difference between IPsec and GRE is basically their abbreviation and the functions they perform, IPsec stands for internet protocol security while GRE stands for generic routing encapsulation. Well, IPsec is said to be the primary and one of the major protocols of the internet, while GRE has no such system to be called primary for the internet.
What it basically does is, using the IP address, it routes the packet between the computers or any other electronic device that is using the network.
What it is used for is to carry or control the other routing protocol that exists in an IP network and an IP packet as well that is itself in an IP network.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | IPsec | GRE |
|---|---|---|
| Abbreviation | IPsec stands for internet protocol services. | GRE stands for generic routing encapsulation. |
| Protocol | IPsec is the primary protocol of the internet. | GRE is not the primary protocol but the tunneling protocol of the internet. |
| Routed protocol | IPsec cannot carry the routed protocol along with the IP packet. | GRE can carry out any routed protocol, including the IP packets that are in the IP network. |
| Security | IPsec offers full confidentiality along with cyber security. | GRE offers a little less security. |
| Byte headers | IPsec does not have any header to cause delays. | GRE has an additional overhead byte header which further might cause some delays in the routing process and the forwarding of the packets. |
What is IPsec?
One of its primary protocols is called internet protocol. It is an internet protocol packet that basically routes packets to the computers or any other device that is using the network.
A protocol is actually needed for the protection of IP communication between the two parties. This is also done by the use of packets.
What is GRE?
GRE, which stands for Generic Routing Encapsulation and is also another protocol used by the internet but a tunneling one.
The thing to keep in mind while going for GRE is that it offers a little less security while the IPsec, on the other hand, offers full confidentiality along with cyber security.
GRE is used for is to carry or control the other routing protocol that exists in an IP network and even in an IP packet too. In contrast, one thing to notice is that IPsec sends those packets but is unable to send any routing protocol the way GRE can.
Main Differences Between IPsec and GRE
- Having full security might be the major concern of some users. That is why they for IPsec as IPsec offers full confidentiality along with cyber security while GRE lacks in this service, GRE offers a little less security.
- Talking about any header present in the protocols which cause delays in the forwarding.
References
- https://www.atlantis-press.com/article/12845.pdf
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8851004/
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I am Sandeep Bhandari; I have 20 years of experience in the technology field. I have various technical skills and knowledge in database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about me on my bio page.
