When your Internet Service Provider (ISP) begins to provide you with a connection that uses IPv6, it is important to consider your current router's compatibility with this protocol.

We explain the possible scenarios and recommendations:

Will there be a problem if my current router only works with IPv4?

1. IPv6 incompatibility: If your current router only supports IPv4, it will not be able to directly handle IPv6 traffic. This means that you will not be able to take advantage of the advantages that IPv6 offers, such as virtually unlimited address space, better performance in certain cases due to simplified packet handling, and improved security features.
2. Need for Tunnels: There are mechanisms such as 6to4 or Teredo tunnels that allow IPv6 traffic to pass through an IPv4 network. However, these mechanisms can complicate network configuration, reduce performance, and introduce security issues.

Is it recommended to have a router that also handles IPv6?

Yes, for several reasons:

1. Future Compatibility: As the world moves towards IPv6 due to a shortage of IPv4 addresses, having a router that supports both protocols ensures that your network is future-proof and can operate seamlessly with both types of traffic.
2. Better Performance and Security: IPv6 was designed to overcome several limitations of IPv4, including performance and security aspects. For example, IPv6 includes IPSec, a set of protocols for encrypting Internet traffic, as part of its standard specification.
3. Simplicity and Scalability: IPv6 simplifies some aspects of network management, such as address autoconfiguration, and eliminates the need for NAT (Network Address Translation), which can improve connectivity and simplify network configuration.

What to do if your ISP changes to IPv6?

• Check IPv6 Support on Your Current Router: Check if your current router supports IPv6 by updating its firmware. Some routers can be upgraded to support IPv6 without replacing hardware.
• Consider Updating your Router: If your current router does not support IPv6, consider upgrading to a model that does. This will better prepare you for the future and ensure compatibility with new Internet technologies and services.
• Check your ISP: It may be helpful to talk to your ISP about the process of transitioning to IPv6 and whether they offer any support or recommendations for equipment that will work well with their IPv6 service.

In summary, although a router that only supports IPv4 may continue to function in the short term, upgrading to a router that also supports IPv6 is a prudent decision to ensure long-term compatibility, improve the security and performance of your network, and take advantage of the benefits. advantages that IPv6 offers.