As the internet transitions from IPv4 to IPv6, understanding the security implications of both protocols is essential for comprehensive network protection.
IPv4 Security Landscape
IPv4 addresses use a 32-bit format (e.g., 192.168.1.1) providing approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses. Due to address scarcity, NAT (Network Address Translation) is commonly used, which provides some inherent security through obscurity.
Most IP reputation data and blocklists are well-established for IPv4. Decades of threat intelligence have built comprehensive databases of malicious IPv4 addresses.
IPv6 Security Landscape
IPv6 uses 128-bit addresses (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334), providing a virtually unlimited address space. This vast space creates new challenges for IP reputation systems.
Attackers can easily rotate through millions of IPv6 addresses, making traditional per-IP blocking less effective. Network-level blocking (/64 or larger) is often necessary.
Security Considerations for Both Protocols
Key factors to consider when securing your network:
- Dual-Stack Protection - Ensure your security measures cover both IPv4 and IPv6 traffic equally
- IPv6-Specific Attacks - Be aware of IPv6-specific vulnerabilities like NDP spoofing and extension header manipulation
- Blocklist Coverage - Verify your threat intelligence sources include IPv6 data, not just IPv4
Did You Know?
Fraudcache tracks both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses, providing comprehensive coverage as organizations transition between protocols.
Fraudcache IPv6 Support
Our threat intelligence feeds and API support both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses, ensuring complete protection regardless of which protocol your infrastructure uses.