I recently implemented a small IPv6 network to fulfill Apple's IPv6 compatibility requirements for our developers' meeting (https://developer.apple.com/support/ipv6/). This served as a valuable learning experience for me to familiarize myself with IPv6, as we have plans to incorporate dual-stack functionality into our environment next year. Here are the key takeaways from my experience:

Given that this is a test and development network, I opted to obtain a /48 IPv6 block from our internet service provider. They routed the /48 block to me through a /126 link connected to my Cisco ASR. If you are utilizing vrf's on your router, ensure that the vrf supports the IPv6 address family.

vrf definition guest

!

address-family ipv4

exit-address-family

!

address-family ipv6

exit-address-family

Enable IPv6 forwarding on the ASR:

ipv6 unicast-routing

This automatically enabled IPv6 CEF for me as well (running 15.4(3)S6)

asr-1001x#show ipv6 cef summary

IPv6 distributed CEF is enabled and running.

Assign the IPv6 addresses to the ASR interfaces:

interface GigabitEthernet0/0/5

 description wan-provider-edge

 vrf forwarding guest

 negotiation auto

 ipv6 address XXX:XXXX:XXXX:XXXX::2/126

 ipv6 nd ra suppress all

 

interface GigabitEthernet0/0/4

 description wan-internal

 vrf forwarding guest

 negotiation auto

 ipv6 address YYYY:YYYY:YYYY:1::1/64

 ipv6 nd ra suppress all

Configure the IPv6 default route going to your WAN provider, and route another /64 block (subnetted from your /48) to your firewall edge:

ipv6 route vrf guest ::/0 XXXX:XXXX:XXXX:XXXX::1

ipv6 route vrf guest YYYY:YYYY:YYYY:2::/64 YYYY:YYYY:YYYY:1::2

Now, all of your IPv6 routing should be properly set up. We utilize Palo Alto firewalls, which required me to configure the internal and external interfaces of the firewall with IPv6 addresses, as well as add an IPv6 default route. I will write another blog post detailing the steps I took to set up NAT64 on the Palo Alto firewall and DNS64 on a bind server, along with RADVD for DNS service advertisement.

If you have more questions about Cisco Routers and Cisco Switches. You could contact us www.hi-network.com  (Email: [email protected])

IPv6 deployment by Cisco refers to the process of implementing and utilizing the IPv6 protocol across Cisco networking devices and systems. This deployment aims to ensure seamless integration and compatibility of IPv6 with existing network infrastructure, while also maximizing the benefits and capabilities of this advanced internet protocol.

Cisco's IPv6 deployment strategy involves various stages, such as planning, design, testing, and implementation. The planning phase focuses on assessing the current network environment, identifying potential challenges, and developing a comprehensive roadmap for IPv6 deployment. This includes evaluating hardware and software compatibility, addressing security concerns, and defining addressing schemes and routing protocols.

During the design phase, Cisco engineers work on creating a detailed architecture that supports IPv6 integration. This involves designing network segments, configuring IPv6 addressing, and implementing necessary routing protocols. Cisco also provides guidance on transitioning from IPv4 to IPv6, ensuring a smooth migration process.

Testing plays a crucial role in Cisco's IPv6 deployment approach. It involves conducting thorough tests to validate the functionality and performance of IPv6-enabled devices and services. This includes testing interoperability with other networking equipment, verifying end-to-end connectivity, and assessing the impact on network performance.

Finally, the implementation phase involves deploying IPv6 across the network infrastructure. Cisco offers various tools and resources to assist organizations in deploying IPv6, such as configuration guides, technical support, and training programs. This ensures that customers can effectively leverage the capabilities of IPv6 and reap its benefits, such as increased address space, improved security features, and enhanced network scalability.

In conclusion, Cisco's IPv6 deployment focuses on seamlessly integrating IPv6 into existing network infrastructure, ensuring compatibility, and maximizing the advantages of this advanced internet protocol. Through a well-defined process encompassing planning, design, testing, and implementation, Cisco enables organizations to embrace IPv6 and harness its potential for a more efficient and secure network environment.