what are two hashing algorithms used with ipsec ah to guarantee authenticity? (choose two.)

he CCNA 200-301 exam questions PDF is a valuable resource for those preparing for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 200-301 certification exam. This PDF typically contains a collection of practice questions that reflect the actual exam format and content. It covers a wide range of topics, including network fundamentals, IP addressing, routing and switching, network security, automation, and more.

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07 April 2025

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what are two hashing algorithms used with ipsec ah to guarantee authenticity? (choose two.)

Introduction To CCNA 200-301 exam questions PDF

In today's digital world, network security is more critical than ever. One of the most widely used security protocols is IPSec (Internet Protocol Security), which ensures secure communication over IP networks. A key component of IPSec is the Authentication Header (AH), which guarantees the authenticity and integrity of data packets.

But how does AH ensure this authenticity? It uses hashing algorithms to create a digital fingerprint of the data. If you're preparing for the CCNA 200-301 Exam Questions, understanding these hashing algorithms is crucial.

In this blog post, we’ll explore:

What IPSec AH is and its role in network security
The two primary hashing algorithms used with IPSec AH
Why these algorithms are essential for the CCNA 200-301 exam

How Study4Pass can help you master these concepts with CCNA 200-301 exam questions PDF resources

By the end, you'll have a solid grasp of these algorithms and how they contribute to secure communications.

Understanding IPSec and the Authentication Header (AH)

What Is IPSec?

IPSec is a suite of protocols designed to secure Internet Protocol (IP) communications by authenticating and encrypting each IP packet in a data stream. It operates at the network layer, making it transparent to applications.

IPSec has two main components:

1. Authentication Header (AH) – Ensures data integrity and authenticity.

2. Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP) – Provides confidentiality through encryption.

What Is the Authentication Header (AH)?

The Authentication Header (AH) is a protocol within IPSec that provides:

Data Integrity – Ensures packets are not altered in transit.
Authentication – Verifies the sender’s identity.
Anti-Replay Protection – Prevents hackers from resending captured packets.

Unlike ESP, AH does not encrypt data, but it ensures that the data hasn’t been tampered with.

Hashing Algorithms in IPSec AH

To guarantee authenticity, AH uses hashing algorithms to create a hash value (digest) of the packet. This hash is then sent along with the data. The receiver recalculates the hash and compares it to the received value—if they match, the data is authentic.

What Are Hashing Algorithms?

Hashing algorithms are mathematical functions that convert input data into a fixed-size string of characters (hash). Key properties include:

Deterministic – Same input always produces the same hash.

Fast Computation – Efficient for network performance.

Collision Resistance – Hard to find two different inputs with the same hash.

Two Hashing Algorithms Used with IPSec AH

For the CCNA 200-301 Certification, you need to know the two primary hashing algorithms used with IPSec AH:

1. MD5 (Message Digest Algorithm 5)

Produces a 128-bit (16-byte) hash.
Uses the HMAC-MD5 variant for added security.
Pros: Fast and widely supported.
Cons: Vulnerable to collision attacks (considered weak for modern security).

2. SHA (Secure Hash Algorithm)

Most commonly SHA-1 (160-bit hash) and SHA-2 (SHA-256, SHA-384, SHA-512).

SHA-1 was commonly used but is now considered less secure.
SHA-2 (especially SHA-256) is the current standard for stronger security.
Pros: More secure than MD5, resistant to attacks.
Cons: Slightly slower due to larger hash sizes.

Exam Tip: The CCNA 200-301 exam may ask, "What are two hashing algorithms used with IPSec AH to guarantee authenticity?" The correct answers are MD5 and SHA.

Why Are These Algorithms Important for the CCNA 200-301 Exam?

The CCNA 200-301 exam tests your knowledge of network security, including IPSec. Understanding:

How AH ensures data integrity
The role of MD5 and SHA in authentication
The differences between these algorithms
will help you answer related questions confidently.

How Study4Pass Helps You Prepare for the CCNA 200-301 Exam

Preparing for the CCNA 200-301 Exam requires hands-on practice with real exam-style questions. At Study4Pass, we provide:

High-Quality CCNA 200-301 Exam Questions PDF – Updated with the latest exam trends.

Detailed Explanations – Understand why answers are correct.

Practice Tests – Simulate the real exam environment.

Key Concept Summaries – Quick revision of critical topics like IPSec, hashing, and encryption.

Why Use Our CCNA 200-301 Exam Questions PDF?

Saves Time – Focus on the most relevant topics.

Boosts Confidence – Familiarize yourself with exam patterns.

Improves Retention – Reinforce learning through practice.

Conclusion

IPSec AH ensures data authenticity and integrity using hashing algorithms. The two primary hashing algorithms are MD5 and SHA. For the CCNA 200-301 exam, you must recognize these algorithms and their roles. If you're preparing for the exam, Study4Pass offers the best CCNA 200-301 exam questions PDF to help you succeed. Download our resources today and take a step closer to certification!