Network guide
IPv4 vs IPv6
Reviewed 10 September 2026 · 5-minute read
IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses; IPv6 uses 128-bit addresses. IPv6 supplies far more address space, while IPv4 remains broadly deployed and often relies on address sharing.
Side-by-side comparison
| Property | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
| Address length | 32 bits | 128 bits |
| Typical notation | 192.0.2.1 | 2001:db8::1 |
| Address sharing | NAT is common | Large space reduces the need |
| Compatibility | Not wire-compatible with IPv6 | Usually dual-stack or translated during transition |
Is one faster or safer?
Protocol choice alone does not guarantee speed or security. Route quality, provider configuration, firewalls and application behavior matter. Both versions need appropriate filtering and patching.
Which one are you using?
The homepage labels the version of the source address used for that request. It does not claim that the other protocol is unavailable.