If you have been fooling around with the various settings of your wireless network, you may wonder how to disable IPv6 on a router. The best routers, after all, allow for all manner of settings to be changed on the fly. But what is IPv6 in the first place, why would you disable it, and how would you disable it? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- IPv6 stands for Internet Protocol version 6 and refers to the latest Internet protocol standard, as the IPv6 address replaced IPv4.
- If you have older devices that struggle to maintain an Internet connection, you may want to disable the IPv6 address.
- Turn off IPv6 traffic by heading into the router’s admin panel, looking for advanced settings or adapter settings, and following the prompts.
What is IPv6 on a Router?
IPv6 refers to Internet Protocol version 6. This is the newest Internet protocol available, replacing the much-used Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4). The IPv6 protocol handles packets efficiently, improves performance, and increases the overall security of a wireless network. It also allows Internet service providers (ISP) to provide a speedier Internet connection.
Why Disable IPv6 on a Router?
There are a few reasons why you would want to disable this feature. If your connected devices have not been manufactured to integrate with the IPv6 protocol, for instance, or if your modem does not play nice with the format. If your devices are not networked properly, you won’t have to learn how to disable a router from accessing the Internet, as you won’t be able to access the router in the first place.
Insider Tip
IPv6 is different from Wi-Fi 6, though they are both modern wireless network standards.
How to Turn Off IPv6 on a Router
Luckily, this is a fairly simple process, in line with learning how to change a router’s MAC address.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time Needed: 5 minutes
- Tools Required: A cable modem, router, Ethernet cable, a connected device (computer)
- Steps: 3
STEP 1
Make sure the Internet is connected properly. Ensure that the Ethernet cable is going from the modem to the router and that there is an available wireless connection for your connected devices. Check your devices to make sure you can get online and that all is right with the world.
STEP 2
Access the admin panel via a web browser or dedicated firmware. Remember, you’ll need your router’s IP address and your password to successfully log in.
STEP 3
Disable the IPv6 protocol by looking for advanced settings, and then LAN settings. Click disable on IPv6 and wait until the update is complete. Please note, this step may differ slightly depending on the make and model of your router.
F.A.Q.S
What does IPv6 do for network traffic?
In short, IPv6 streamlines network traffic, as it has been designed from the ground up for efficiency. This is true for TP-Link routers and any other kind of router.
What happens if you disable IPv6?
If you disable IPv6 you may experience limited security features and adapter options, but your router otherwise work normally.
Do I have IPv6?
You can check if your router features IPv6 capability by looking at the instructions or reading the original router advertisement. Most modern router models include this feature.
STAT: One serious problem occurs when IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) is enabled (both by the ISP and on the router), but there is no IPv6 firewall being used. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.avast.com/c-how-to-disable-ipv6-support-in-router-settings
- https://kb.iu.edu/d/aqig
- https://support.blindsidenetworks.com/hc/en-us/articles/360050168052-How-to-disable-IPV6r
- https://docs.oracle.com/cd/E19285-01/html/E24662/z40000f71393620.html
- https://answers.uillinois.edu/uis/page.php?id=99981
