Every computer, modem, server and smartphone that connects to the Internet has a unique Internet protocol (IP) address, which enables users to find it. The address format, known as IPv4, was standardized in 1977 as a 32-digit binary number, making a then seemingly unlimited 4.3 billion addresses (232) available.

Now they’re almost gone. In the past few years Internet and Web companies have begun snapping up a new set of addresses, known as IPv6, that have 128 digits. But the companies have not made them live. That changes on June 8, when Google, Comcast and others will turn on IPv6 addresses for a 24-hour test. 

Most likely the transition will go smoothly. All but the oldest computers and phones can handle both schemes, although the IPv6 option may not be turned on. Old DSL modems or cable modems may not be compatible, says Geoff Huston, chief scientist for the Asia Pacific Network Information Center. In these cases, if you try to access an IPv6 address, you will either experience a delay or never connect. For a few years Internet companies will have to support both formats, which could slow access. “At some point, IPv6 will dominate, and everyone will be optimized for it,” Huston says. When that day will come, no one can say.

This article was originally published with the title Will the Internet Stop on June 8?.

6 Comments

1. 1. boogle42 08:52 AM 6/7/11

   Bits, not digits...

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2. 2. gstowe 08:59 AM 6/7/11

   A binary digit *is* a bit.

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3. 3. edromar 05:24 PM 6/7/11

   Why? every time I log back in your stupid Hal refuses to recognize my digit 2!

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4. 4. edromar 05:28 PM 6/7/11

   And I think you are a stupid computer Hall. But I'm not going to argue with you. YOU ARE AT TOO MUCH A DISADVANTAGE!

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5. 5. maphillips80 10:17 AM 10/25/11

   Can you imagine! With no internet. I work for an <a href="http://www.optimum7.com">internet marketing services</a> company and this would be unheard of for us.

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6. 6. maphillips80 in reply to maphillips80 10:17 AM 10/25/11

   http://www.optimum7.com

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