What is IPv6?
IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) is the latest version of the Internet Protocol, developed to replace IPv4. While IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses, IPv6 uses 128-bit addresses, providing a practically infinite number of unique addresses.
IPv6 Address Format
An IPv6 address looks very different compared to IPv4:
- IPv4:
192.168.1.1(4 groups of decimal numbers) - IPv6:
2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334(8 groups of hexadecimal numbers)
IPv6 addresses can be shortened by removing leading zeros and replacing consecutive
groups of zeros with ::. For example:
2001:0db8:0000:0000:0000:0000:0000:0001- Shortened to:
2001:db8::1
How Many Addresses Are There?
IPv6 offers 340 undecillion (340,282,366,920,938,463,463,374,607,431,768,211,456) unique addresses. To put this in perspective:
- IPv4 has ~4.3 billion addresses
- IPv6 has enough to give every atom on Earth's surface its own address
- Every person on Earth could have billions of addresses
Advantages of IPv6
1. Unlimited Addresses
No more address shortage. Every device can have its own globally unique address without the need for NAT.
2. Simpler Networks
Without NAT, networks become easier to configure and troubleshoot. End-to-end communication works as the internet was originally intended.
3. Built-in Security
IPsec (encryption and authentication) was mandatory in the original IPv6 specification. Although now optional, support is more widespread.
4. Automatic Configuration
SLAAC (Stateless Address Autoconfiguration) allows devices to automatically configure their own IPv6 address without a DHCP server.
5. More Efficient Routing
IPv6 headers are simpler and more efficient, which can improve network performance.
6. Better Support for Mobile Devices
Mobile IPv6 makes it easier for devices to move between networks without losing connection.
How Do I Know If I Have IPv6?
There are several ways to check:
- Visit VisaIP.se – we automatically show if you have IPv6
- Try visiting ipv6.visaip.se – if the page loads, you have IPv6
- Look for a long address with colons (e.g., 2001:db8::1) instead of dots
The Transition from IPv4 to IPv6
The transition is happening gradually, and most networks currently run "dual-stack" where both IPv4 and IPv6 work in parallel. This ensures compatibility while the transition continues.
For you as a user, the transition is usually transparent – your device automatically chooses the best protocol for each connection.
Common Questions About IPv6
Is IPv6 Faster Than IPv4?
In theory, yes, since NAT is not needed and routing is more efficient. In practice, it depends on network configuration.
Is IPv6 More Secure?
IPv6 has better support for security features, but security depends more on how networks and services are configured than on the IP version itself.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Equipment?
Most modern devices (purchased after 2010) support IPv6. Older routers may need to be updated or replaced.