In the period from may 2013 to may 2018, the IPv6 traffic as reported by Google has raised from 1.3% to 22% (https://www.google.com/intl/en/ipv6/statistics.html, being the remaining of the traffic IPv4, the IP flavor with 32-bit addresses). This growth is determined by the exhaustion of the IPv4 address space in the main regions of the world
The aim of this course is to allow the student to obtain deep knowledge on IPv6. It is also an objective to increase the knowledge on IPv4.
To complete these objectives, the student must acquire the following knowledge:
- Understand the limitations of the Internet network layer, in particular IPv4 address scarcity. Know the alternatives to solve these problems: IPv6 and its basic operation principles.
- Understand the technical and economic context, and the difficulties in deploying a new technology like IPv6. Identify the actors involved in this process and their motivations.
- Be able to perform IPv6 configurations of medium complexity in both hosts and routers.
Besides, as the advanced functionalities provided by IPv6 are presented, such as address configuration mechanisms, or support for multiple addresses in the same interface, we will analyze its equivalence for the IPv4 protocol, when appropriate. In this way, the course also deals with advanced topics in IPv4 not addressed in other courses.
Regarding to the general abilities, in this course we will work on:
- Realizing the importance of business models in the deployment of new technologies
- A critic attitude about current and developing technologies
- The ability to work in teams to design and configure systems, balancing work load in order to face complex problems
- The ability to configure real equipment, both individually and as a team.
In relation with the Program Outcomes specified for the degree, this course aims to cover:
"a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, science, telecommunication technologies and engineering
e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of tele-communication solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
j) a knowledge of contemporary issues
k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice"