Four steps to plan your migration from IPv4 to IPv6

As IPv4 addresses are becoming scarcer, more companies are turning to IPv6 addresses. Many companies have noticed the benefits of IPv6's built-in security features. IPv4 and IPv6 can coexist within the network. Because it allows companies to gradually convert their IPv4 addresses to IPv6, to achieve a successful migration, you should be fully prepared before you start implementing it.

Listed below are four steps that enterprises should take when planning their IPv6 migration.

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Step 1: IPv6 cost-benefit analysis

The first step in planning an IPv6 migration is to complete a cost-benefit analysis. All stakeholders should understand this cost-benefit analysis, which can help obtain project resources and ensure that management at all levels can clearly see the benefits of the project. Many IPv6 projects are shelved during implementation because management does not understand the benefits of moving forward.

Step 2: Readiness Assessment

An existing infrastructure inventory should be completed, which will include a list of all infrastructure IPv4 addresses in the network, a list of where they are referenced in all applications, and a list of all DNS mappings. This assessment will verify that the current external DNS provider supports IPv6, and that the infrastructure equipment supports IPv6.

During the assessment process, applications should be evaluated to determine if they can support IPv6 transition. You should also assess the skills of the IT staff who will support IPv6. Any required training should be documented.

Step 3: Decide what to do with unsupported applications and infrastructure

All non-IPv6-capable applications and infrastructure devices should be documented, and the process and cost required to upgrade them to support IPv6 should be documented and presented to management, along with a decision on whether to immediately upgrade these devices and applications to support IPv6. This is a critical step in defining the scope of IPv6 migration.

Step 4: Plan the details of your migration

Once the initial analysis is complete, the organization must decide whether to move forward with a full IPv6 switch, or if a dual-stack implementation makes more sense.

Dual stack IPv6 migration provides organizations with greater flexibility because it allows time to gradually convert the network from IPv4 to IPv6. The problem with dual stack is that it adds a layer of complexity to the network, and you must verify that your network infrastructure equipment supports it. For medium and large organizations, dual stack is often the best approach because it allows them to complete the migration in phases and can easily roll back specific devices or applications that encounter problems during the migration process.

After deciding which approach to use, the organization must develop an IPv6 implementation plan that considers the logistics of moving, converting devices and applications to IPv6 or installing new equipment. Proper planning must acknowledge the impact that the migration may have on end users and identify strategies to mitigate those impacts if any issues arise after the change.

It is important for organizations to know that waiting to deal with IPv6 can cost them in lost communications and potential loss of revenue and customers. The prudent approach is to start planning now to prepare for the future. Fortunately, it is not as difficult as it seems, and with careful planning, IPv6 migration can go smoothly and directly to end users and customers.