What is the function of the process 'iked'?

The process 'iked' is specifically designed for IPsec management, which is essential for establishing secure communication channels over potentially unsafe networks. It primarily handles the Internet Key Exchange (IKE) protocol, which is pivotal in negotiating and managing the keys used for IPsec. This involves both the initial setup of secure connections and the subsequent maintenance of those connections by managing keys and security associations.

By facilitating the negotiation of cryptographic parameters and handling the authentication of peers, 'iked' plays a crucial role in ensuring that the data transmitted is secure and that both endpoints can agree on the methods of encryption and authentication to be used. The effective management of IPsec is vital in a network environment, especially when protecting sensitive information, which is why 'iked' is dedicated to this function.