IPv6: Internet Protocol Version 6

IPv6 is making room

Everything that connects to the Internet has to have its own unique Internet Protocol (IP) address. Think of an IP address as a phone number that websites and devices use to communicate with each other.

But as more and more people use smart devices, and the Internet of Things picks up speed, we’re running out of IPv4 addresses.

That’s where IPv6 came in. It created almost limitless addresses.

The transition to IPv6 started years ago. But no worries. You probably won’t have to do anything. We’ve got you covered.

IPv6 basics

Bigger Internet. More addresses.

The Internet isn’t just for computers and websites anymore. Now everything from cars to cameras to home thermostats are online. And they all have to have their own IP addresses.

IPv4 doesn’t have enough addresses to go around. But IPv6 sure does. It has about 340 undecillion IP addresses. That’s more than all the grains of sand on all the beaches on Earth!

AT&T is ready

In the past, all IP addresses were IPv4 addresses. But, in the future most new devices and websites will use IPv6. That’s why we started changing our products, services, and network infrastructure years ago.

We’re ready, and we want you to be, too.

Learn more

Check the forums for advice from expert users

Find out how to enable IPv6 on your operating system

Compare IPv4 and IPv6

4.3 billion versus 340 trillion, trillion, trillion addresses

What’s the difference between IPv4 and IPv6?

With 32 bits, IPv4 addresses have 4 numbers separated by periods:

144.160.155.43

By using 128 bits, IPv6 can include numbers, letters, and longer addresses.

2001:1890:1c00:3113::f:3005

With so many possible combinations, IPv6 can accommodate virtually unlimited devices and websites.

Are we leaving IPv4 content behind?

No. The move to IPv6 won’t affect how you access IPv4 content. Websites will look the same, and AT&T will still support your IPv4 devices and networks. But with IPv6, you can connect with more content, more devices, and more people than ever.

IPv6 compatibility test

IPv6 compatibility tool

If you’re an AT&T Internet customer, you can use this tool to see if your systems and equipment are ready for IPv6. If they’re not compatible, you’ll get guidance on what to do next.

AT&T dial-up service is limited to IPv4 only. If you want to use IPv6, upgrade to high-speed Internet.

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Want to know which IP address type a site is using? Our website checker is open to anyone who wants to see if a site supports IPv4, IPv6, or both.