Ipv4 Vs. Ipv6: Which Is Better?

by Sherry Hart

The original IP protocol addresses were IPv4, but there are a limited number of these addresses and they have finally run out. Since this has been anticipated for over a decade, technicians have been working hard to develop a replacement: IPv4. However, there are pros and cons to both IPv4 and IPv6 in terms of the challenges of transitioning from IPv4 to IPv5 and the features that come with each protocol.

The Hassle Of Transitioning

Companies and organizations must transition to the IPv6 protocol. This is an expensive and time-consuming process. Since some companies have not yet transitioned to IPv6, there is a need for the already distributed IPv4 addresses. Both IPv4 and IPv6 will coexist for a period of time. For example, websites have to use workarounds to ensure that they are compatible with both protocols, but many websites have not yet made the switch.

The Contain Flow Label Field

One of the advantages of IPv6 is that it has a Contain Flow Label field. This allows for Quality of Service (QoS) handling. QoS refers to various practices and protocols that are designed to ensure that critical applications are able to operate at a high-performance. This allows for network administrators to efficiently use resources without needing to worry about over-provisioning networks, which could jeopardize bandwidth.

Address Configuration

Address configuration is handled differently with IPv4 vs. IPv6. IPv4 is handled manually, while IPv6 can be handled automatically through stateless address autoconfiguration through ICMPv6 or DHCPv6.

Multicast Neighbor Solicitation

IP to MAC resolution for IPv4 is broadcast ARP. For IPv6, it is Multicast Neighbor Solicitation. Not only does Multicast Neighbor Solicitation locate networks, but it also comes with functions for diagnostics and error reporting. Neighbor solicitation begins by making sure that you have an authentic address. Once it has been verified that the address is unique, the Host 1 sends a message to all hosts, allowing Host 1 and Host 2 to transmit packets.

IPSec

With IPv4, IPSec is optional. However, with IPv6, it is required. IPSec is a secure Internet protocol that involves the authentication of IP packets in a communication session.

Bandwidth

Speed tests have found that IPv6 outperforms IPv4 in downloads and also often outperforms IPv4 in uploads. However, speed can vary widely based on various conditions, such as weather.

Given that there are many who still want IPv4, there is a market to sell your IPv4 address. Also, if you are looking for a stable industry to invest in, IPv4 is a great option. Contact a IPV4 broker for more information.   

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