A comprehensive system and method for managing security in an electronic network. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of security services, providing a plurality of security mechanisms, and linking the services and mechanisms with a plurality of security management functions. The method supports all associated security protocols in the electronic network while maintaining transparency for message exchange. Advantageously, the method of the invention readily provides compatibility with a plurality of environments, network types, and technologies. The method provides five functional hierarchical layers, one protocol handling access to the layers, and includes a security management information base segmented according to the five functional layers. The five functional layers are, from the base, fundamental security primitives, security mechanisms, security services, security management functions, and security policies. Each layer can contain several independent modules. Exchange of messages between modules in a layer and between layers is provided. An implementing system facilitates the method in an electronic network, illustratively including an electronic processing environment.