Advancing the internet: Action plan for the deployment of internet protocol version 6 (IPv6) in Europe

Summary

The Action Plan aims to support the widespread introduction of IPv6 due to the depletion of IPv4 addresses and IPv6’s potential for innovation. IPv4’s 4 billion addresses are insufficient for ongoing Internet growth, necessitating IPv6, which offers a vast address space and supports advanced IP services. Despite the early progress in establishing IPv6 Task Forces and financing European R&D projects, adoption has been slow, risking Europe’s competitive edge.

IPv4 address scarcity is a growing concern, with depletion expected between 2010 and 2011. IPv4’s continued use involves complexities like Network Address Translation (NAT), which hinders direct communication and increases network design costs. IPv6 solves these issues with its ample address space, facilitating innovation and direct connectivity.

The transition to IPv6 involves enabling it alongside IPv4 (dual-stack) and using tunneling for communication. Key stakeholders include internet organizations, ISPs, and the European Commission, which must drive IPv6 deployment. Currently, Europe leads in IPv6 address allocation, but less than half are publicly visible. ISPs must gradually offer IPv6 services to ensure a smooth transition and maintain Europe’s competitive advantage in the global Internet economy.