IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange version 2) is a networking protocol that creates and manages encrypted connections between two devices or networks. It handles the initial handshake and ongoing authentication needed to establish a secure tunnel through which all data travels encrypted.
The protocol excels in mobile environments because it can quickly reconnect when a device switches networks, for example moving from WiFi to mobile data. This ability, called MOBIKE (Mobility and Multihoming Protocol), makes IKEv2 popular on smartphones and tablets where connectivity changes frequently.
IKEv2 is most commonly encountered in three contexts:
- VPN services: Many commercial VPN providers use IKEv2 as an alternative to OpenVPN or WireGuard, offering faster connection times and better battery life on mobile devices.
- Corporate networks: Organisations use IKEv2 to secure remote worker connections and site-to-site links.
- Mobile carriers: Telecommunications companies deploy IKEv2 to protect signalling traffic and user data on 4G and 5G networks.
When evaluating a VPN service or mobile app, IKEv2 support signals that the provider has invested in mobile-friendly technology. It's faster to connect than older protocols and consumes less battery than some alternatives, though it's not universally supported on all devices and networks (some corporate firewalls block it). If you regularly switch between WiFi and mobile networks, or value quick reconnection times, IKEv2 is worth checking for in your VPN or security software specifications.