Internet Protocol (IP) addresses come in two versions—IPv4 and IPv6. While both serve the primary purpose of identifying devices on networks, each version has distinct characteristics and uses. Let's explore the differences and examine how IP geolocation works with each.
Understanding IPv4
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) is the original addressing system introduced in the early days of the internet. IPv4 addresses consist of 32 bits represented by four numbers separated by dots, such as 192.168.1.1. This structure allows for roughly 4.3 billion unique addresses.
Limitations of IPv4
The biggest challenge facing IPv4 is address exhaustion. With billions of devices online, the available pool of IPv4 addresses has been nearly depleted, leading to workarounds like Network Address Translation (NAT), which allow multiple devices to share a single public IP.
Introducing IPv6
IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) was developed to address the limitations of IPv4. IPv6 addresses are significantly longer, comprising 128 bits and expressed in hexadecimal notation, such as 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334.
IPv6 can theoretically accommodate approximately 3.4×10^38 unique addresses—virtually limitless for foreseeable needs.
Benefits of IPv6
- Vastly expanded address space
- Enhanced security through integrated IPsec
- Improved routing efficiency
- Auto-configuration capabilities (no DHCP needed)
Key Differences Between IPv4 and IPv6
Here are the main differences at a glance:
| Feature | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
| Address Length | 32 bits | 128 bits |
| Address Example | 192.168.1.1 |
2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334 |
| Number of IPs | ~4.3 billion | ~3.4×10^38 |
| Security | Optional IPsec | Built-in IPsec |
| Configuration | Manual or DHCP required | Automatic (stateless auto-configuration) |
Is IPv4 or IPv6 Better?
Determining whether IPv4 or IPv6 is "better" depends largely on context. IPv6 offers significant improvements over IPv4, including virtually unlimited address availability, built-in security features, and better network management. However, IPv4 remains prevalent due to its simplicity, widespread infrastructure, and mature support systems. For now, both protocols coexist, but the future undeniably favors IPv6.
| Use Case | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
| Home Networks | Common but limited by NAT | Ideal with automatic addressing |
| Mobile Networks | Increasingly constrained | Rapid adoption, future-proof |
| IoT Devices | Address scarcity challenges | Virtually limitless addressing |
| Security and Privacy | Optional security measures | Built-in IPsec, enhanced privacy |
| Enterprise Networks | Widely supported but complex NAT | Streamlined addressing and scale |
Why Both IPv4 and IPv6 Matter
IPv4 remains essential due to its widespread use and mature support systems. However, IPv6 adoption is growing rapidly, especially among mobile providers and large tech companies, making it essential for businesses to support both standards for optimal connectivity and accuracy.
IPv6 Adoption
IPv6 adoption is still increasing globally.
According to Google's IPv6 Statistics, IPv6 adoption is at about 47% as of March 2025. This rapid growth reflects increasing efforts by ISPs, cloud providers, and major internet companies to transition towards IPv6 infrastructure.
How IPv6 Affects Geolocation
IPv6 introduces challenges but also opportunities in geolocation. The sheer number of available IPv6 addresses means geolocation databases must handle significantly more entries.
For reliable geolocation with both IPv4 and IPv6, it's important to select providers who regularly update their databases with high-quality, authoritative data sources and proprietary measurements.
Providers like IPLocate already support IPv6 geolocation in our IP geolocation API and downloadable databases. Our databases contain millions of geolocation entries from existing IPv6 networks and addresses, with more added every day. This ensures accurate, efficient geolocation services as IPv6 adoption continues to rise.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between IPv4 and IPv6 is vital in today’s increasingly connected world. While IPv4 remains widely used, IPv6 adoption ensures continued growth and innovation in the internet ecosystem. Accurate geolocation services must support both to effectively meet the needs of modern digital infrastructure.
Looking for a reliable IP geolocation provider that supports both IPv4 and IPv6? Start exploring our free, fast & reliable IP address API today—with full IPv4 and IPv6 support—and discover how our industry-leading IP intelligence can help your business.
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