What does IPsec stand for?

IPsec stands for Internet Protocol Security. It is a framework of open standards that provides a suite of protocols to secure Internet Protocol (IP) communications through features such as data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity. Essentially, IPsec operates at the Network Layer of the OSI model, allowing for secure communication between devices over potentially untrusted networks. By securing IP packets, IPsec is vital for protecting data as it travels across the internet or within a private network, making it a fundamental component in virtual private networks (VPNs) and other secure communications protocols.

The other choices do not accurately represent the established standard; terms like "internet protection security," "internal protocol security," and "internet privacy security" do not describe the full scope and purpose of IPsec, which focuses specifically on securing IP traffic.