What is Internet Protocol IPv6?
Internet Protocol IPv6 Definition: Is a modernization of IPv4 that includes a much larger address field: IPv6 addresses are 128 bits that support 2^128 hosts.
Understanding Internet Protocol IPv6
Is a modernization of IPv4 that includes a much larger address field: IPv6 addresses are 128 bits that support 2^128 hosts. IPv6 is the next-generation Internet Protocol designed to replace IPv4, featuring a vastly expanded address space 128-bit addresses that can accommodate approximately 340 undecillion unique addresses. It includes built-in support for security IPsec, improved header structure, and enhanced routing capabilities. IPv6 is defined in RFC 8200 with security considerations in documents like RFC 4942. Organizations implement IPv6 through phased deployment strategies, dual-stack environments, tunneling mechanisms, and security controls designed for IPv6 unique features. For example, a cloud service provider might deploy IPv6 using a dual-stack approach where systems run both IPv4 and IPv6 simultaneously, implement IPv6-aware firewalls and intrusion detection systems, and secure neighbor discovery protocols that replace ARP in IPv6 environments. Related terms: IP addressing, Network layer, Dual-stack, IPv6 transition, Address auto-configuration, IPsec, Extension headers, Global unicast address.