Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) is the protocol utilized by Internet Service Providers (ISP’s) today. Any computer, cellular phone, sensor, home appliance, etc. connected to the Internet needs an IP address to communicate with other devices. Due to the proliferation of “hosts or devices” connected to the Internet, IPv4 is running out of addresses. This has necessitated the transition to IPv6 to resolve that issue. The transition to IPv6 will provide many benefits.

The most recent memorandum from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB M-21-07), “Completing the Transition to Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6)”, requires that federal agencies complete at least 80% operational deployment of IPv6 across all federal information systems and services by the end of FY2025. Additionally, there is a requirement for federal agencies to provide a plan for completing the remaining deployment.

Staff members within the Enterprise Service Center’s (ESC’s) Systems Operations Managed Services Branch (AMK-220) are active participants in the transition, and are developing the Transition Plan. AMK-220 will have representatives on the IPv6 Core Team who will work with others in developing and updating the FAA’s Ipv6 Transition Plan. As active participants in the plan, AMK-224 staff members will work with other team members to establish IPv6 addressing processes, establish test facilities, and upgrade the MMAC Backbone Network and the MMAC Trusted Internet Connection (MMAC TIC). Team members will also be involved in the development of IPv6 pilot programs.

A significant amount of work must be completed for the successful implementation of IPv6. However, AMK-220 staff members are working with other Lines of Business (LOB’s) to provide the critical infrastructure and capacity to successfully complete the transition from IPv4 to IPv6. Additionally, staff members are working to make sure ESC managed systems meet target dates for IPv6 compliance.