IP addresses are numerical labels assigned to devices on a network to identify and communicate with each other. There are two main versions: IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) and IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6).
📊 IPv4 vs IPv6: Key Differences
| Feature | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
| Address Length | 32 bits | 128 bits |
| Address Format | Decimal (e.g., 192.168.0.1) | Hexadecimal (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334) |
| Total Addresses | ~4.3 billion | ~340 undecillion (3.4×10³⁸) |
| Year Introduced | 1981 | 1998 |
| Security | Optional (via IPsec) | Built-in IPsec support |
| NAT (Address Sharing) | Widely used | Not required due to vast address space |
| Configuration | Manual or via DHCP | Auto-configuration (stateless or DHCPv6) |
| Performance | Slower in large networks | Improved routing efficiency and scalability |
📌 What is IPv4?
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The most commonly used IP version today.
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Uses 32-bit addresses, like
192.0.2.1. -
Due to limited addresses, uses NAT (Network Address Translation) to allow multiple devices to share one public IP.
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Still dominant in most internet infrastructure.
📌 What is IPv6?
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Designed as a long-term replacement for IPv4.
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Offers a virtually unlimited number of unique addresses.
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Supports built-in security and simplified device configuration.
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Enables end-to-end connectivity without NAT.
✅ Summary:
| IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|
| Limited address space | Massive address space |
| NAT is essential | No need for NAT |
| Older and widely adopted | Newer and gradually being adopted |
| Less secure by default | Built-in encryption (IPsec) |
💡 Conclusion:
While IPv4 is still in widespread use, IPv6 is the future of networking — providing better security, scalability, and simplicity for the expanding internet of devices.