Using IT Asset Management Technology to Ease the Transition to IPv6
by Ed Cartier
VP Marketing, Eracent, Inc.

Overview
IPv6 is the next generation of network addressing and will replace the current IPv4 standard, creating a need for a full transition from one technology to the next. It is designed to operate on both high performance and low bandwidth networks and provides a platform for new internet functionality. The IPv6 transition anticipates that user host systems can be upgraded to IPv6, and that network operators can deploy IPv6 in routers, with nominal coordination between the two.

However, one critical task that must be addressed in either case is accurately discovering, identifying and inventorying all the devices across the network that will need to be upgraded or replaced as a result of the IPv6 implementation. An automated system that can provide critical configuration information, along with the address of each device on the network, will be an essential tool to effect a successful transition. Eracent’s Network Probe can provide management and technical personnel with the critical information they will need to budget and implement a seamless transition from IPv4 to IPv6.

Network Probe as a Transition Tool
The need for a smooth transition was recognized very early in the planning stages of the IPv6 protocol. Clearly, one critical aspect of implementing a successful transition is discovering and inventorying all of the various network components that would be impacted by changing IP protocols.

Eracent’s Network Probe discovers and interrogates networked devices using a multi-variant approach that yields extremely accurate inventory results. Each device on a network has identifiable characteristics, although not necessarily the same characteristics, that the Network Probe uses to perform its inventory and discovery functions. By utilizing a variety of data sets captured from the devices the Eracent technology can provide the IT manager with detailed information on previously unknown or partially identifiable devices. Using the Identification Management Technology, Eracent’s Network Probe can precisely identify unique devices built into a network infrastructure more accurately than systems that rely exclusively on MIB and/or OID data.

Network Probe, using Eracent’s agentless technology, collects complete configuration information for each discovered device. Hardware is inventoried at the component level and software down at the hot fix level. Using an interactive reporting system, users can select those characteristics of devices that would need to be replaced or upgraded to support IPv6. Using that information, report network and IT managers can easily develop a transition budget and schedule. Devices that require new software or operating systems, devices that can be upgraded to be IPv6 compliant and those that need to be replaced can be specifically identified. Budgets can be built, and expenses minimized, through use of this key information. Moreover, the entire process can be accomplished in a matter of days from a central location, making the entire process more efficient.

The move to IPv6 is inevitable, but tools are available to network and IT professionals that will help speed the process and support a successful implementation. Eracent’s Network Probe, along with its other IT asset management solutions, can provide the information that can make the difference between an efficient and cumbersome transition.