IPv4 vs IPv6, Do You Need to Care?
IPv4 addresses are 32-bit numbers, written as four chunks like 192.0.2.44. IPv6 addresses are 128-bit, written in hex like 2001:db8:85a3::8a2e:370:7334. Same job, identifying devices, vastly more room.
Why the switch happened
IPv4 simply ran out. The fix has been slow because every router, server, and phone on the path needs to understand the newer protocol. Most of the big networks now carry both at once, a setup called “dual stack.”
What it means for you
- Your connection may already be using IPv6 without you noticing
- Some sites load faster over IPv6 since traffic avoids translation layers
- DNS
AAAArecords (see the DNS guide) are how IPv6 addresses get published
Curious which one you’re on right now? The IP lookup shows your address, IPv6 ones are easy to spot by the colons.
Related tools
Run an IP lookup to see which protocol you’re using, and review DNS record types to understand AAAA records.
Further reading
How to check which one you use
The fastest way is to look at your public address. If it looks like four numbers separated by dots, you are on IPv4. If it contains colons and letters, you are on IPv6. The IP lookup tool shows your live address, and the speed test works over whichever protocol your connection uses.
Benefits of IPv6
- Far more addresses, so every device can have its own public IP
- Simpler, more efficient routing headers
- Built in support for IPsec
- No need for NAT in most cases, which simplifies peer to peer apps
Why IPv4 still matters
- The existing internet is overwhelmingly IPv4
- Many older devices and routers do not support IPv6
- IPv4 address space is still heavily traded and valuable
- Dual stack lets a network run both at the same time
FAQ
Will IPv4 go away?
Not anytime soon. Most networks run both protocols side by side, a setup called dual stack. IPv4 will likely remain for years.
Should I disable IPv6?
Only if your provider or equipment is misconfigured. Disabling IPv6 can break sites and services that prefer it.
Does IPv6 change my speed?
Sometimes a little. Some networks route IPv6 more directly, which can reduce latency. In other setups there is no noticeable difference.
Can I get an IPv6 address at home?
Many ISPs now support IPv6. If your router has a WAN IPv6 address in its status page, you already have it.