Use of IPsec by manned space missions

Internet protocol security (IPsec) can provide a highly interoperable and cost effective part of securing network communications with manned spacecraft, but some shortcomings of the protocol and its implementations must be addressed in order to apply this technology in manned spacecraft. The most notable challenges are in the areas of IPsec device management, security certification (e.g., FIPS 140-2 [1]), manned space qualification, overhead, and security vulnerabilities. This paper describes challenges facing the use of IPsec in space and offers recommendations for overcoming those challenges.