10 What is IPv6?
A Detailed Explanation of Internet Connection Methods

When using the internet, slow speeds and security concerns can sometimes be a source of stress. IPv6 technology goes beyond merely improving speed; it has the potential to fundamentally enhance the entire internet experience, including connection stability and security. This article aims to explain IPv6, a promising method for improving internet connection conditions, in a way that's easy for beginners to understand.

What is IPv6

IPv6 stands for "Internet Protocol Version 6" and is the standard for internet protocols that followed IPv4.
IP (Internet Protocol) refers to the rules used by computers to send and receive information on the internet, and one of the rules set by IP is the management of 'IP addresses.' An IP address is akin to an address for communication on the internet. The exhaustion of IP addresses in the traditional IPv4 led to the development of IPv6, which can accommodate a much larger number of IP addresses.

To compare numbers, IPv4 is limited to about 4.3 billion IP addresses, while IPv6 can use a number four times larger, effectively allowing an unlimited allocation of IP addresses.
Currently, many services are provided using IPv6. JPNAP has been supporting IPv6 since 2008, playing a pioneering role in providing services that contribute to the reliability of social infrastructure.

Features of IPv6

IPv6 offers more than just improvements in communication speed through IPoE connection; it also enhances security. One of the reasons for the enhanced security in IPv6 is the integration of an encryption protocol called 'IPSec,' which helps prevent eavesdropping and tampering with communications.

However, there are websites and services that can only be accessed through IPv4. These can be accessed without issue by using the technique called "IPv4 over IPv6 tunneling."

IPv6 Connection Methods

There are significant differences in the methods of connecting to the internet between IPv4 and IPv6.
While IPv4 connects to the internet using the 'PPPoE method,' IPv6 allows connections via both 'PPPoE method' and 'IPoE method.' We will explain the differences between these methods.

PPPoE Method

The PPPoE method (PPP over Ethernet) is a connection method that has continued from the era when the internet was connected via telephone lines.
In this method, a 'network terminal device' is used to connect to the internet. Authentication is performed by accessing a dedicated server with a username and password.
With the PPPoE method, as internet traffic increases and becomes congested, the network terminal device can become overwhelmed, leading to a decrease in communication speed and a decline in quality.

IPoE Method

The IPoE method (Internet Protocol over Ethernet) is a connection method designed to communicate over Ethernet from the beginning. It authenticates directly through the line without accessing a dedicated server.
Since IPoE communication does not go through a 'network terminal device,' there is no reduction in speed caused by this device. Therefore, it is generally expected to provide stable and high-speed communication.

Conclusion

IPv6 not only addresses the challenge of IP address exhaustion but also contributes to improving communication quality and enhancing security. Furthermore, the role of IPv6 in the future of the internet is expected to continue to increase.