Ipv4 to Ipv6 Implementation Challenges
IPv4 to IPv6: Challenges and Priority of IPv6 Implementation
Tyler Spellen
University of Maryland University College
Abstract
Regarding the Internet Layer protocol , IPv4 is currently the most widely deployed solution, being used by corporations and individual consumers around the world. While it has been identified that there are no more IPv4addresses available for allocation from the IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) to the five RIRs (Regional Internet Registries), many companies have still kept their IPv4 network infrastructure, deciding not to make the switch yet. So the question is, when does it make sense for a company to switch their network infrastructure from IPv4-only to IPv6 compatible, and what is the best way to execute this? Based upon in-depth research of this question using varied sources and case studies, a recommendation of implementation with tentative timeline for a given corporation will be made. Clear definitions and history of IPv4 and IPv6 will be provided. The purpose of this research paper is not to explain the IPv4 and IPv6 specifications in grave detail, but to give enough overview so that pressing issues associated with IPv6 deployment are understood. Gained efficiencies, security concerns, and competitive advantages associated with IPv6 implementation will be discussed. Answering this research question will give the reader additional insight into the challenges and priority of IPv6 implementation, helping to understand the significance, potential issues, and urgency concerning IPv6 deployment for corporations and individuals alike.
Introduction
For decades, the topic of IPv4 address exhaustion has been of concern to the IT community. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) is at the forefront of this topic, as they are responsible for the global IP address space management. On February 3, 2011, the NRO (Number Resource Organization) released an article, stating that the last two top level (/8)
Tyler Spellen
University of Maryland University College
Abstract
Regarding the Internet Layer protocol , IPv4 is currently the most widely deployed solution, being used by corporations and individual consumers around the world. While it has been identified that there are no more IPv4addresses available for allocation from the IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) to the five RIRs (Regional Internet Registries), many companies have still kept their IPv4 network infrastructure, deciding not to make the switch yet. So the question is, when does it make sense for a company to switch their network infrastructure from IPv4-only to IPv6 compatible, and what is the best way to execute this? Based upon in-depth research of this question using varied sources and case studies, a recommendation of implementation with tentative timeline for a given corporation will be made. Clear definitions and history of IPv4 and IPv6 will be provided. The purpose of this research paper is not to explain the IPv4 and IPv6 specifications in grave detail, but to give enough overview so that pressing issues associated with IPv6 deployment are understood. Gained efficiencies, security concerns, and competitive advantages associated with IPv6 implementation will be discussed. Answering this research question will give the reader additional insight into the challenges and priority of IPv6 implementation, helping to understand the significance, potential issues, and urgency concerning IPv6 deployment for corporations and individuals alike.
Introduction
For decades, the topic of IPv4 address exhaustion has been of concern to the IT community. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) is at the forefront of this topic, as they are responsible for the global IP address space management. On February 3, 2011, the NRO (Number Resource Organization) released an article, stating that the last two top level (/8)
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