SRTP, Secure Real-time Transport Protocol

SRTP is an extension of RTP (Real-Time Protocol) and relates very closely to SRTCP (Secure Real-time Control Protocol). Both of these protocols provide the same security features and many of the same standards. Both SRTP and SRTCP are optional with the use of RTP, which provides encryption but not authentication. Similar to RTP, SRTP is primarily used in VoIP (Voice over IP) communications. SRTP uses authentication and encryption algorithms to reduce the risk of a DOS (denial of service) attack. It has the ability to achieve a high throughput in numerous communication platforms, including both wireless and hard-wired devices. SRTP can also be enhanced with many available provisions and extensions. SRTP Protocol was developed by a team of IP (Internet Protocol) and cryptographic experts from Ericsson and Cisco. It became formally published in March of 2004 by the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force), originally drafted as RFC (Request for Comments) 3711.