This results in an efficient look-up process far superior to the traditional association of source address, destination address, as well as possible protocol identifier and port number. The kernel of the IPv6 specification and address format is stable. IPv6 is less about address shortages and more about providing a scaleable addressing structure to enable the Internet's growth to continue. A standardized header format and size making it easier to process packets in modern 64 bit hardware architectures. Header and payload compression.
Standards track QoS and differential service features.
Mandated autoconfiguration in both stateful and stateless modes. Dual stack migration strategy ensuring interoperability with the installed base of IPv4 devices. Simplified mobility supporting mobile and nomadic scenarios.