IPv6 stands for the Internet Protocol, version 6. It is a protocol that’s intended to replace the current version, IPv4. One of the main benefits of IPv6 versus IPv4 is that it provides a pool of nearly unlimited IP addresses. Other improvements include more efficient routing and stateless address auto-configuration. The transition to IPv6 is expected to take some time, so IPv4 and IPv6 will coexist with one another for years.

With the amount of internet-enabled devices constantly growing year after year, the global IPv4 address pool has been depleting in different regions across the world. The North America numbers authority (ARIN) has been out of IPv4 since 2015, and the numbers authority for Europe (RIPE) has no new space since late 2019. Since the future of IPv4 is limited in size and scope, IPv6 is a natural transition to make for everyone.

To tell if your computer or home network is ready for IPv6, visit here to test your IPv6 Connectivity. If there are any ‘red’ times, there are actions still needed to be completed on your side. If you have any questions or issues, please see the below resources or contact our support center from options on the right side of this page.

Residential

Residential connections should be configured for DHCPv6 to automatically obtain IPv6 network information from NineStar. We dynamically assign one IP for WAN and a /56 block for your LAN side to utilize.

Business/Static

Business and static needs will need to go through your sales representative (Residential Service Consultant for residential static customers). For Business customers, we will require your ARIN Org ID for allocation reporting purposes. Once your order is processed, you will be given your WAN information and a /48 LAN block from NineStar to utilize as you see fit.