IKEv2, or Internet Key Exchange version 2, is a VPN protocol that generally manages the Security Associations (SA) negotiation. In layman’s terms, SA can be considered a secret agreement between two or more physical systems that want to communicate securely over the Internet. This post will show how you can override the IP address as the default client identity on a Windows IKEv2 VPN client.
Need for overriding the default client identity
The need to override the default client identity (IP address) on Windows IKEv2 VPN may arise in various scenarios that include security considerations as well as operational requirements as detailed below:
- Anonymity and Privacy: In specific scenarios, users might want to prioritize their privacy. They can use a different identifier, like a username, instead of the actual IP of their system to avoid the risk of exposing sensitive information.
- Security Issues: Since the IP address is the real identity of a device over a network, using the same could invite potential security concerns, especially when connected to a public network. Hence, using a custom identity helps add an extra layer of security.
- Network Policy Compliance: Few VPN providers may have specific policies that necessitate using custom identities for authentication as a part of their security policy or compliance standards.
- Meaningful logging and auditing: Custom client identities allow system or network administrators to identifiable information about the users and devices connected to the VPN, thereby contributing to a meaningful logging and auditing process.
Override IP address as the default client identity on Windows IKEv2 VPN client
- Open Network settings by opening Settings >Network and Internet
- Under Network and Internet, click on VPN on the left-hand side.
- In the next window, select the VPN connection to be modified and click on Edit.
- Click on Advanced Options to access the advanced settings of the VPN connection.
- Enter the Username (optional) to mask the device’s real identity (IP address) with a customized username.
- Click on Save to save the changes for the VPN connection settings.
- Disconnect and then reconnect the VPN connection for the changes to take effect.
Read: How to increase Internet Speed using VPN
Conclusion
Although anonymity and security enhancements can be achieved by overriding the client’s identity, the changes made to the system to achieve it should be approached with caution. All the above changes should ideally be done by complying with the network security measures that might be in place.
Read: How to Exclude an App or Browser from VPN on a PC
How do I get IKEv2 VPN?
If you want to set up a VPN on your device, first, go to your device’s Settings and select “Network & Internet”. From there, choose “VPN” and tap the “+” button to add a new VPN profile. Next, you’ll be prompted to enter a name for the VPN profile you’re creating. Select “IKEv2/IPSec RSA” from the “Type” drop-down menu. Finally, enter the IP address or DNS name of your VPN server in the “Server address” field. Once you’ve entered this information, you should be all set to start using your VPN.
Should I use IKEv2 or OpenVPN?
When it comes to choosing a VPN protocol, IKEv2 is faster and more stable, making it a better choice for mobile devices. However, if security is your top priority, OpenVPN is the stronger option, and it still provides a fast connection.
