Hello, you are using an old browser that's unsafe and no longer supported. Please consider updating your browser to a newer version, or downloading a modern browser.

Global Accelerated Learning • Est. 1999
Glossary Term MACsec

Training Camp • Cybersecurity Glossary

What is MACsec?

MACsec is the IEEE 802.1AE standard for hop-by-hop Ethernet encryption and integrity at wire speed using AES-GCM on Layer 2 links.

Glossary > Network Security > MACsec

Understanding MACsec

MACsec is the IEEE 802.1AE Layer 2 security standard that provides hop-by-hop confidentiality, integrity, and data origin authentication for Ethernet frames. It encrypts and authenticates traffic at line rate, typically using AES-GCM, securing each point-to-point link between directly connected devices such as switches and hosts. Key management is commonly handled by the MACsec Key Agreement protocol defined in IEEE 802.1X.

Learn More About MACsec:

Ready to Get Certified?

Turn knowledge into credentials with our instructor-led cybersecurity boot camps.

View All Courses →