When Internet addresses become scarcefrom Florian Waefler, Head of Business Data, Swisscom Corporate Business
Mr Waefler, the Internet is booming like never before and Internet addresses are becoming scarce. Why is that and what does this have to do with IPv4 and IPv6?
IPv4 is the version of the Internet protocol (IP) that is prevalent throughout the world today. IPv4 is used to transmit data packages, such as the addresses of computers or routers, and for routing. With IPv4, the number of IP addresses is restricted to around 4.3 billion. Because not only computers, but an increasing number of devices of all types have IP addresses, the remaining free addresses are becoming scarce. For this reason, IPv6 is being introduced as a successor to ease this burden.
What is the advantage of the new standard IPv6 for corporate customers?
First of all, with around 340 sextillion IP addresses, the address space is almost unlimited. Then there's the fact that IP packet processing is considerably easier with IPv6. Another new feature is the autoconfiguration function, which allows devices to assign themselves a unique IP address. The new address format has also been extended from 32 to 128 bits, which enables hierarchically structured global routing.
Who is responsible for the allocation of IPv6 IP addresses?
The RIPE Network Coordination Centre (RIPE NCC) is a regional Internet registry (RIR). This neutral registration authority assigns IPv4 and IPv6 IP address ranges in Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia. Most of the recipients are national ICT providers or, for provider-independent IP addresses, individual corporate customers are also direct recipients
How much longer will IPv4 addresses be available?
The global IPv4 address pool has been fully allocated. However, Swisscom still has enough IPv4 addresses reserved for its customers. It is possible to operate IPv4 and IPv6 simultaneously, and this will remain the case on the Internet for years to come.
What is Swisscom doing and from when will IPv6 be available?
Swisscom has already been working on the conversion to IPv6 for some time and will offer its customers optimal solutions, so that they can continue to use the products without any trouble. The customers do not have to switch to IPv6 immediately, but will be able to retain their IPv4 addresses for years to come.
IPv6 will be run in parallel to the current IPv4, on the same networks. This will meet future Internet requirements and allow new content and applications. Customers with IPv4 addresses will not have access to these. This is why we will be offering an IPv6 address alongside the IPv4 address.
Swisscom corporate customers can order an IPv6 Internet connection for IP-Plus Business Internet today and enjoy the benefits of the new Internet protocol immediately.
Should corporate customers already be switching to IPv6? What preparations would make sense?
There are good reasons for conversion. However, there is no need to rush. We recommend keeping an eye on market developments and adding the introduction of IPv6 to your business plan. You should also develop a plan for migration from IPv4 to IPv6, supplement the security concept for IPv4 with a set of rules for IPv6 and arrange for support training.
Bearing in mind the need to protect the investment, IPv6 compatibility must be considered when procuring hardware and software. More and more online applications and devices are being offered that support the new IPv6 standard. By introducing IPv6 into a company, you are using the newest technology and can use new applications.
What does the conversion to IPv6 mean from a global viewpoint?
Companies with multinational operations must consider the fact that Asian countries will implement IPv6 more quickly. The reason for this is the strong growth in the number of Internet users in the Asia-Pacific region. The remaining available IPv4 addresses for this region will therefore be used up faster than in Europe.
Do companies have to wait for Swisscom before migrating their own LAN?
No, within companies corporate customers are independent and can begin IPv6 migration immediately. Suitable routers should be installed at the ISP gateway to Swisscom that can transmit both IPv6 and IPv4 simultaneously. Whether with LAN or Internet, Swisscom will be happy to help corporate customers with migration straight away.
Thank you for the highly informative interview, Mr Waefler.
Are IPv6 addresses already an issue for you or do you have questions? Join the discussion – our networking expert, Florian Waefler, will be happy to answer your questions.