Technical Summary
The Internet needs to be able to handle both IPv4 and IPv6 packets.
However, it is expected that some constituent networks of the
Internet will be "single protocol" networks. One kind of single
protocol network can parse only IPv4 packets and can process only
IPv4 routing information; another kind can parse only IPv6 packets
and can process only IPv6 routing information. It is nevertheless
required that either kind of single protocol network be able to
provide transit service for the "other" protocol. This is done by
passing the "other kind" of routing information from one edge of the
single protocol network to the other, and by tunneling the "other
kind" of data packet from one edge to the other. The tunnels are
known as "Softwires". This framework document explains how the
routing information and the data packets of one protocol are passed
through a single protocol network of the other protocol. The
document is careful to specify when this can be done with existing
technology, and when it requires the development of new or modified
technology.
Working Group Summary
The SOFTWIRE WG supports the development and advancement of this
document.
Protocol Quality
This document was thoroughly reviewed by WG chairs and WG members,
including those with expertise in IPv4 to IPv6 transitions and
interworking.
Dave Ward is the WG chair shepherd.