IPv4 and IPv6 explained (and why a /64 with your VPS)

Every server on the internet needs an IP address. There are two kinds: IPv4 and IPv6. Here is the difference, and what you get with a VPS at ID-Euro.

IPv4: the classic address

An IPv4 address looks like 45.91.123.4. There is a limited supply of them, so they are handed out sparingly, usually one per server.

IPv6: the modern, abundant address

An IPv6 address is much longer (like 2a00:1450:400e:80a::200e) and there are practically unlimited of them. That is why IPv6 is handed out in blocks rather than single addresses.

What you get with a VPS

Every VPS at ID-Euro comes with one IPv4 address and a full /64 IPv6 block. A /64 is an enormous range, enough to give many services or containers their own IPv6 address. See the VPS page.

Do I need both?

In practice yes: IPv4 is still needed because not everything supports IPv6 yet, while IPv6 is the future and increasingly expected. Running both (dual stack) gives you the best reach.

Frequently asked questions

How big is a /64? Astronomically large: far more addresses than the entire IPv4 internet.

Can I get more IPv4 addresses? Yes, an extra IPv4 address can be ordered as a paid option. IPv6 remains free and gives you all the room you need.

Do I have to configure IPv6? Your server gets the block assigned; how you use it is up to you.