Are you ready for IPv6? You have 6 months to do it.

Many internet users are unaware of IPv6. However, this protocol is truly the savior of the future of the web, a new version of the basic IP protocol that enables data transmission on the Internet. The importance of upgrading to this new versionwrites David Orban, scientist, businessman, analyst.

IPv4 address space is running out at an alarming rate. If there are no more free addresses, it will be impossible to connect any new devices—new computers, mobile phones—to the Internet. Analysts have long predicted that IPv4 addresses will run out in May 2011.

Providing support for regular users will fall on the shoulders of their providers. Enterprise users, especially IT directors, will have to consider the transition to the new protocol.

To expedite the transition to the new protocol and make it as painless as possible, a special non-profit organization, 6UK, was created in the UK. Its main goal is to ensure everyone can join the new Internet Protocol. The British are so committed to ensuring the smooth operation of the internet industry because last year, internet companies accounted for over 7% of the country's GDP.

However, if the transition to the new protocol does not occur in a systematic and planned manner, this could cause huge problems for the industry.

The transition from IPv4 to IPv6 will be lengthy. However, it is necessary to ensure uninterrupted operation. You can find out what you can do today to transition to the new protocol at www.ipv6actnow.org.