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IPsec VPN in the web-based manager

To configure an IPsec VPN, use the general procedure below. With these steps, your FortiGate unit will automatically generate unique IPsec encryption and authentication keys. If a remote VPN peer or client requires a specific IPsec encryption or authentication key, you must configure your FortiGate unit to use manual keys instead.

1. Define Phase 1 parameters to authenticate remote peers and clients for a secure connection. See IPsec VPN in the web-based manager.
2. Define Phase 2 parameters to create a VPN tunnel with a remote peer or dialup client. See IPsec VPN in the web-based manager.
3. Create a security policy to permit communication between your private network and the VPN. Policy-based VPNs have an action of IPSEC, where for interface-based VPNs the security policy action is ACCEPT. See Defining VPN security policies.

The FortiGate unit implements the Encapsulated Security Payload (ESP) protocol. Internet Key Exchange (IKE) is performed automatically based on pre-shared keys or X.509 digital certificates. Interface mode, supported in NAT mode only, creates a virtual interface for the local end of a VPN tunnel.

This chapter contains the following sections: