Internet protocol version 6 (student paper)

Abstract

Many students, educators, and other professionals are increasingly finding that they need to become familiar with networking protocols. While the technical details are more complex than most professionals need, an understanding of the basic uses, features, terminology, and configurations is essential for any technical decision-maker or computer professional. Because of the Internet's dominance, computer professionals need to be, at least, familiar with its basic functionality. Currently, Internet Protocol version 4, IPv4, is the standard for Internet communications. However, with the tremendous expansion of the Internet, IPv4 is proving to be incapable of handling the coming demand. A new standard will be accepted to allow the Internet to continue to grow in size as well as function. Internet Protocol version 6, or IPv6, is the next currently proposed standard for Internet communications. While the basic function of IPv6 is similar to IPv4, IPv6 is drastically different in form. Differences fall into the categories of addressing, security, and configuration. Already, many large organizations, including Microsoft and Cisco, are developing and testing the new protocol. Beta software that allows construction of IPv6 networks has also been released to the general public. Because of the significant enhancements IPv6 provides and the shortage of IPv4 addresses, many organizations have begun implementing Internet Protocol version 6. The many differences between IPv4 and IPv6 make this preliminary testing an absolute necessity for the eventual migration to IPv6 to be successful. There are many methods available for transitioning to IPv6. One tool, however, is by far a greater necessity than any other. Knowledge of IPv6 is an essential element to the success of the next generation of Internet communication. Whether you are an educator, student, technician, or manager, if you need to know network communication, you will need to know Internet Protocol version 6.