IPv6 Internet Colloquium on 1 June 2011

On 1 June 2011, an IPv6 Internet Colloquium will be held with the aim of giving individual users and companies, in particular SMEs, the information they need to adopt an appropriate strategy for the switch to IPv6.

IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) is the successor protocol to IPv4. The main reason for the changeover is the lack of IPv4 addresses, which is starting to become a problem. IPv6 also features various improvements such as better security and routing.

The Internet Assigned Number Authority allocated the last IPv4 address blocks on 3 February 2011, meaning that by early 2012 some organisations, websites, companies and individuals will only have an IPv6 presence on the Internet.

However, IPv4 and IPv6 are not directly interoperable. In the absence of compatibility, it will therefore no longer be possible to access certain parts of the Web. The lack of IPv4 addresses is having a direct impact on all Internet users, and especially companies that use the Internet as a means of communication. For most companies, the transition to IPv6 is a major issue, having a bearing on the connectivity of their partners, customers and employees.

The lack of compatibility could also complicate the use of certain online applications from abroad. However, the swift adoption of IPv6 could be an advantage in terms of innovation and competitiveness for Belgian companies.

All Internet users (consumers, companies, research and teaching institutions, public authorities) should be able to procure IPv6 certified products and services and to implement this protocol on their internal networks.

More information about the IPv6 Internet Colloquium on the FPS Economy website (fr)