IPv6: A worthwhile change

Installing IPv6 will have a great impact on businesses, but there will be challenges; as with any technology infrastructure, IPv6 is complex to implement and integrate and that the transition cannot take place without careful consideration, (both beforehand and after installation) especially in terms of training staff adequately etc. Some companies are still reluctant and are deterred by technological difficulties or economic constraints, but if their reluctance is legitimate they must understand that it is better to undertake a smooth transition today rather than being forced to accept something they are inadequately prepared for, tomorrow.
Best of both worlds
This is foolish especially when all the elements have been combined to make this changeover as smooth as possible.
Aware that sudden technological breakthroughs often result in failure, IPv6’s designers have been smart enough to create a new protocol that can coexist with the old IP standard on the same infrastructure. This dual mode on which the two protocols work together aims at easing the transition and will give users the best of both worlds, enabling its rapid use by companies. For their part, vendors, the channel, OEMs and integrators are prepared to assist organisations to immediately undertake this switchover. They have all the know-how necessary to efficiently support their customers during this transition.

Companies should not miss out on this opportunity. If they want to continue to conduct business and have an online presence, they must now begin the migration process towards IPv6. Rather than a constraint, this strategy will offer tremendous opportunities to grow, to offer new services to their customers, to position themselves in new markets… in other words, they will become more competitive and more productive. Today, more than ever, a migration process to IPv6 appears to be a necessary structural change for businesses.
Channel opportunity?
The imminent shortage of IP addresses resulting from the older IPv4 means that sooner rather than later the channel will have to embrace the new IPv6 protocol. As the network encompasses ever more elements in everyday life (not just in business), provider and consumer alike will see the need for extra IP addresses grow rapidly.

How does this migration present an opportunity to the channel?  As organisations mull over the pros and cons of transitioning to the new protocol, the channel has the opportunity to educate businesses about the risks of not embracing IPv6 and thereby be seen as strategic advisors. In this role, the channel can strengthen relationships with customers and cement its position as trusted partners that drive business transformation.  This is a win-win situation.

Moreover, it also lays the foundation for organic revenue growth as customers will likely return to the same channel partner for counsel in the future.