ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_AUTH_ALG - 13874 (0x3632)
Invalid authentication algorithm.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Introduction
This article provides a detailed explanation of the ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_AUTH_ALG error code in Windows. This error is specific to the Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) and Internet Key Exchange (IKE) subsystems.
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_AUTH_ALG error indicates that an invalid authentication algorithm was specified during IPsec or IKE operations. This can occur when a security protocol or policy is configured with an unsupported or unrecognized authentication method.
Error Details
This error code is returned by the Windows operating system to indicate that the specified authentication algorithm is not valid for the current context. The error typically occurs during the establishment of an IPsec Security Association (SA) or during IKE negotiations.
Usage Context
The ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_AUTH_ALG error can be encountered in various scenarios, such as:
- Configuring IPsec policies with unsupported authentication methods.
- Mismatch between expected and actual authentication algorithms.
- Incorrectly specified security protocols that do not support the chosen authentication method.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error code as an indication that a configuration issue exists. The application or system attempting to establish an IPsec connection must ensure that all security parameters, including the authentication algorithm, are correctly configured and supported by both ends of the communication.
Related Errors
ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_AUTH_METHOD_NOT_SUPPORTEDERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_CERTIFICATEERROR_IPSEC_IKE_CERT_REVOCATION_CHECK_FAILED
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_AUTH_ALG error mean?
A: This error indicates that an invalid authentication algorithm was specified during IPsec or IKE operations.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Ensure that all security parameters, including the authentication algorithm, are correctly configured and supported by both ends of the communication. Verify that the chosen security protocol supports the specified authentication method.
Summary
The ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_INVALID_AUTH_ALG error is a generic reference indicating an invalid authentication algorithm during IPsec or IKE operations. Developers should ensure correct configuration and compatibility between the communicating parties to avoid this issue.