CyberGuard dictionary / Network Security
IPv6
Also known as IPv6
The 128-bit version of Internet Protocol addressing and packet delivery.
In simple terms
IPv6 gives networks a much larger address space than IPv4.
Technical explanation
IPv6 defines 128-bit source and destination addresses and supports features such as neighbor discovery; its presence does not automatically make a connection safer.
IPv6 usually changes addressing and neighbor discovery, while core security needs such as access control and monitoring remain. Dual-stack environments need equivalent policy and visibility for both IPv4 and IPv6 traffic.
Examples in practice
A phone uses an IPv6 address to reach a website on a network that supports IPv6.
An organization blocks an unwanted service over IPv4 but forgets the IPv6 rule. A test finds the service still reachable, so the team updates both paths and their monitoring.
Why it matters
Teams must include IPv6 in inventory, firewall rules, and monitoring when their networks use it.
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Sources and further reading
Published 2026-10-15 · Last updated 2026-10-15 · CyberGuard editorial content. Source links provide context; they do not imply endorsement.