IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses and remains widespread. IPv6 uses 128 bits and offers a considerably larger address space.
In brief….Both protocols often coexist in double stacks. Enable IPv6 without properly supervising or filtering it can create a blind security angle.
Solution A….
IPv4
IPv4 uses decimal writing such as 192.168.1.10 and has a limited space of addresses.
Key points…
- Very widely compatible
- NAT frequently used to save public addresses
- Common private addresses: 10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12 and 192.168.0.0/16
Solution B….
IPv6
IPv6 uses a hexadecimal writing such as 2001:db8::1 and allows to, assign a large number of, unique addresses.
Key points…
- Space of address on 128 bits
- Self-configuration possible with SPLAAC
- No broadcast of conventional type (broadcast)
Comparative table….
| Criterion…. | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 32 bits | 128 bits |
| Note | Decimal pointed | Hexadecimal separated by two-points |
| NAT | Very common | Generally not required |
| Deployment | History and universal | Crescent, often in double pile |
Choose IPv4 if…
You must remain compatible with an infrastructure or application that does not support IPv6 properly.
Choose IPv6 if…
You are preparing a modern architecture, have an IPv6 prefix and master the associated firewall and DNS.
Key takeaways
Both protocols often coexist in double stacks. Enable IPv6 without properly supervising or filtering it can create a blind security angle.
Deepening the two notions….
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