What is IPv6?

IPv6 is the acronym for Internet Protocol Version 6. IPv6 is the "next generation" IP protocol which will replace the current IP Version 4 (IPv4) protocol.

IPv6 addresses a number of problems in IPv4, such as the limited number of IPv4 addresses. It also improves IPv4 in areas such as routing and network auto-configuration. IPv6 is expected to gradually replace IPv4, with the two coexisting for a number of years.

IPv6 treats one of the largest headaches of an IP network from the administrator’s point of view – configuring and maintaining an IP network.

Why does KX III support IPv6 networking?

U.S. government agencies and the Department of Defense are now mandated to purchase IPv6-compatible products. In addition, many enterprises and foreign countries, such as China, will be transitioning to IPv6 over the next several years.

What is "dual stack" and why is it required?

Dual stack is the ability to simultaneously support IPv4 and IPv6 protocols. Given the gradual transition from IPv4 to IPv6, dual stack is a fundamental requirement for IPv6 support.

How do I enable IPv6 on the KX III?

Use the "Network Settings" page, available from the "Device Settings" tab. Enable IPv6 addressing and choose manual or auto-configuration. Consult the user guide for more information.

What if I have an external server with an IPv6 address that I want to use with my KX III?

The KX III can access external servers via their IPv6 addresses, for example, an SNMP manager, syslog server or LDAP server.

Using the KX III’s dual-stack architecture, these external servers can be accessed via: (1) an IPv4 address, (2) IPv6 address or (3) hostname. So, the KX III supports the mixed IPv4/IPv6 environment many customers will have.

What if my network doesn’t support IPv6?

The KX III’s default networking is set at the factory for IPv4 only. When you are ready to use IPv6, then follow the above instructions to enable IPv4/IPv6 dual-stack operation.

Where can I get more information on IPv6?

See www.ipv6.org for general information on IPv6. The KX III user guide describes the KX III’s support for IPv6.