User's Manual

Reference Manual for the NETGEAR ProSafe VPN Client
5-8 Using the Security Policy Editor
202-10015-01
How to Enter a Preshared Key
A preshared key is an alphanumeric character string that can be used instead of certificates to
authenticate the identity of communicating parties during Phase 1 IKE negotiations. This character
string, which can contain from 8 through 255 characters, is called preshared because the remote
party needs it before you can communicate with it. Both parties must enter this preshared key in
their IPSec-compliant devices, such as a firewall, gateway encryptor, router, or software client.
Preshared keys can be included with the security policy when it is exported or included in a
customized client installation.
When you use preshared keys, you don't have to deal with CAs and certificates. Preshared keys,
however, do not provide the same level of security as certificates.
Before you begin to configure the security policy, decide whether to use certificates or preshared
keys.
To use preshared keys instead of certificates for authentication, enter the preshared key when you
Configure My Identity for a selected connection.
Note: Preshared keys are not global policy settings; therefore, you must assign the key to each
applicable connection individually.
1. In the Security Policy Editor, in the Network Security Policy list, expand the specific secure
connection .
2. In this connection, click My Identity.
3. In the Select Certificate box, click None.
4. Click Pre-Shared Key. The Pre-shared Key dialog box opens.
5. Click Enter Key.
6. Type the key.
7. Click OK.
8. Click Save.
9. Complete configuring My Identity.