The migration from IPv4 to IPv6 has been an ongoing process for several years, and as we move further into 2025, many businesses and networks continue to rely on IPv4 despite the increasing adoption of IPv6. While IPv6 promises an almost unlimited address space and numerous improvements, the transition has been slower than anticipated. As a result, many companies are still left asking, “Do we still need IPv4 in 2025?” Let’s dive deeper into this question and explore the reasons behind the persistence of IPv4 and how businesses can effectively manage both addressing systems.
Understanding IPv4 and IPv6
IPv4: The Foundation of the Internet
IPv4, or Internet Protocol version 4, has been the backbone of the internet since its inception in the early 1980s. It uses a 32-bit addressing system, which provides around 4.3 billion unique IP addresses. While this seemed more than sufficient when IPv4 was first implemented, it was quickly realized that with the rapid growth of the internet, the number of available IPv4 addresses would eventually run out. Find available IPv4 addresses here.
IPv6: The Future of the Internet
IPv6, introduced in the late 1990s, uses a 128-bit addressing system, offering an astonishing 340 undecillion addresses (a number followed by 36 zeros). This exponential increase in address space was necessary to meet the demands of an ever-expanding internet. IPv6 also offers several advantages, including:
- More Efficient Routing: IPv6 eliminates the need for network address translation (NAT) and simplifies routing.
- Improved Security: IPv6 was designed with security in mind, offering built-in support for IPSec (Internet Protocol Security).
- Simplified Network Configuration: IPv6 makes it easier to configure devices, especially in large-scale environments.
However, the adoption of IPv6 has been slow, primarily due to the significant challenges in migrating from IPv4, especially for legacy systems, software incompatibility, and the costs associated with upgrading infrastructure.
Why IPv4 is Still Relevant in 2025
Despite the advantages of IPv6, IPv4 remains indispensable for several critical reasons:
1. Compatibility
Many websites, applications, devices, and legacy systems still rely solely on IPv4. The transition to IPv6 is gradual, and for many companies, IPv6 is still not fully compatible with their current systems. It will likely take several more years before IPv6 is universally adopted, making IPv4 essential for ensuring continued functionality and accessibility.
2. Business Continuity
Businesses cannot afford to experience service interruptions during the transition to IPv6. Keeping both IPv4 and IPv6 running in parallel, known as a dual-stack configuration, ensures that companies can continue operations without disruption. Dual-stack environments allow businesses to interact with networks that only support IPv4 or IPv6 without issue, providing seamless connectivity during the migration process.
3. Market Accessibility
IPv4 continues to be the “universal language” of the internet, particularly in regions or sectors where IPv6 adoption is still in its infancy. IPv6 adoption is concentrated in large tech companies like Google, AWS, and Microsoft, but many smaller networks, service providers, and regions are still reliant on IPv4. This makes IPv4 the dominant protocol for internet connectivity in many areas of the world.
4. Operational Simplicity
Network administrators are more familiar with IPv4, and much of the monitoring and security infrastructure is still designed around IPv4. The tools and best practices that have been developed over decades for managing IPv4 networks are still the most reliable. Until IPv6 becomes fully integrated into businesses’ operations, IPv4 remains simpler and more cost-effective to maintain.
IPv4Hub.net: Bridging the IPv4 Gap
IPv4Hub.net offers a practical solution for businesses navigating the IPv4 shortage. Read more about why IP addresses are running out and what to do. By providing access to verified IPv4 address blocks for lease, IPv4Hub.net helps businesses maintain operations without the high costs of purchasing IPv4 addresses. Their platform connects verified buyers and lessors worldwide, offering clear pricing and flexible leasing terms.
Businesses can lease IPv4 blocks such as /24, /23, and /22 to meet their immediate needs, all while receiving essential documentation such as SWIP, LOA, and ROA support to ensure proper routing and compliance. IPv4Hub.net makes it easy for businesses to maintain IPv4 connectivity during this period of transition and while working toward a future where IPv6 will eventually dominate.
The Dual-Stack Solution: A Safe and Reliable Approach
As organizations strive to transition from IPv4 to IPv6, the most effective solution for the time being is running dual-stack networks. A dual-stack environment allows systems to communicate using either IPv4 or IPv6, depending on the capabilities of the destination system. This approach ensures seamless communication between IPv4-only and IPv6-only networks, making it easier for businesses to continue interacting with the larger internet ecosystem. Learn how to acquire both IPv4 and IPv6 to prepare your network for the future.
Advantages of Dual-Stack Deployment:
- Smooth Migration: Dual-stack deployments allow businesses to migrate to IPv6 gradually without disrupting existing services that rely on IPv4.
- Future-Proofing: While IPv6 adoption increases, dual-stack networks ensure that businesses can continue growing their infrastructure without worrying about immediate IPv4 shortages.
- Flexibility: Dual-stack enables businesses to maintain stable operations while addressing the needs of both IPv4 and IPv6 networks.
While dual-stack deployments increase administrative overhead temporarily, they are the most reliable solution to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during the transition to IPv6.
The Cost of IPv4: Leasing as a Smart Alternative
Given the increasing scarcity of IPv4 addresses, leasing has become an attractive option for businesses that need access to IP resources quickly and without the high upfront costs associated with purchasing IPv4 addresses. IPv4Hub.net and other providers offer flexible leasing options, making it easier for businesses to secure the IPv4 addresses they need without making long-term financial commitments.
Leasing allows businesses to:
- Get Immediate Access: Leasing IPv4 addresses provides immediate access to necessary resources while delaying larger investments in IPv6 migration.
- Maintain Flexibility: Leasing terms can range from monthly to yearly, providing businesses with the flexibility to scale their IP resources up or down as needed.
- Save Money: Leasing eliminates the need to pay for IPv4 addresses upfront, allowing businesses to use their capital for other critical areas of growth.
The Future of IPv6 Migration: A Mixed Reality
By 2025, over 45% of the world’s internet users are expected to be on IPv6. However, full global migration is still years away. Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have adopted IPv6 extensively, but millions of smaller networks continue to rely on IPv4. Over the next decade, coexistence will likely be the norm, with businesses using both IPv4 and IPv6 as they transition at their own pace.
For businesses planning to scale in the coming years, maintaining a dual-stack network will allow them to navigate the gap between IPv4 and IPv6. Those who prepare for a hybrid model of both protocols will be better positioned to handle the increasing demand for connectivity and the changing internet infrastructure.
IPv4’s Role in 2025
Despite the rise of IPv6, IPv4 remains an essential protocol for global connectivity in 2025. It is still widely used and offers stability, reliability, and compatibility for businesses worldwide. As IPv6 adoption continues, businesses will need to maintain both IPv4 and IPv6 networks, leveraging the benefits of each protocol to ensure uninterrupted service and growth.
IPv4Hub.net provides businesses with a seamless way to lease IPv4 addresses while transitioning to IPv6. By offering flexible leasing options, professional support, and essential routing documentation, IPv4Hub.net ensures businesses remain connected and compliant as they move toward an IPv6 future.
In the end, the answer to the question “Do you still need IPv4 in 2025?” is a resounding yes. IPv4 will continue to be a critical component of the internet for years to come, and businesses that are proactive in managing their IPv4 resources will be best positioned to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.