The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the evolution of IPv6, the most recent version of the Internet Protocol. This initiative aims to collect information about the level of knowledge about the development of IPv6 and to help identify a set of measures which could be adopted in order to promote take up of this protocol in Europe.
The current generation, Ipv4, is close to reaching its limit of being able to generate new addresses and the adoption of Ipv6, which has a larger capacity (128 bits as opposed to IPv4’s 32 bits), will enable a new range of addresses and services, especially in the area of convergence between fixed and mobile, and data, voice and video services.
With Ipv6, address can be assigned to a new range of devices that connect to the internet - mobile phones, car navigation systems, domestic appliances, industrial equipment etc. All of these devices will be able to link up to each other and communicate wirelessly.
The consultation will close on 24th February.
Further information:
- Your Voice in Europe - consultations http://ec.europa.eu/yourvoice/consultations/index_en.htm
- IPV6 - The Next Generation Internet Protocol http://www.erodocdb.dk/Docs/doc98/official/pdf/ECCREP078.PDF
