Understanding IPv6

What is an IP address?

IP, which stands for Internet Protocol, works like a street address to pinpoint exactly where you are accessing the Internet from. This allows information, like web pages and email, to be delivered to you. Every device (such as a mobile phone, a Wii, a PlayStation console or a computer) that accesses the Internet must have a unique IP address, which is generally provided by an internet service provider like Time Warner Cable and AT&T. Without an IP address, a device will not be able to get to internet to send and receive information.

An IP address is a unique number that identifies the location of a computer or device on a network. The current IP address version is called IPv4 and a typical public IP address looks like this: 24.128.21.12.

What is IPv6?

IPv6 is the abbreviation for Internet Protocol version 6. We are currently on Internet Protocol version 4, or IPv4, but IPv6 will be the next generation protocol for Internet communication. Not only will IPv6 provide a much larger address space, but it will also provide features such as improved routing traffic and better security.

What does an IPv6 address look like?

An IPv6 address is much longer than an IPv4 address and looks something like 24da:db8:ac10:fe01:2aa:ff:fe00:56ab.

Here are a few characteristics of IPv6:

1. IPv6 contains a combination of both letters and numbers (0 through 9, and A through F).

2. IPv6 consists of 32 hexadecimal characters in an address and is 128 bits in length.

3. An IPv6 address could look like this: fd98:d3e2:f0fe:0:54ae:34ff:fecc:892, compared to an IPV4 address that looks like this: 24.128.21.12.

What is the difference between IPv4 and IPv6 addresses?

An IPv4 address is a series of 4 numbers separated by periods. An example of an IPv4 address is 192.0.2.15.

An IPv6 address is a series of 8 numbers separated by colons. An example of an IPv6 address is 2001:db8:ac10:fe01:2aa:00ff:fe00:56ab.

Why do we need IPv6?

The Internet has experienced a phenomenal increase of devices accessing the Internet. Because of this increase, IPv4 addresses are running out. The solution is for IPv6 to accommodate this increased demand by providing a much larger address space, along with improved traffic routing and better security.

Some of the major advantages of IPv6 are:

1. Larger IP address space: IPv6 has 128-bit address space or 4 times more address bits compared to IPv4's 32-bit address space. This large address space will provide enough address space for many decades to come.

2. Better security: IPv6 includes security in the underlying protocol. For example, encryption of packets (ESP: Encapsulated Security Payload) and authentication of the sender of packets (AH: Authentication Header).

3. Consideration to real time: To implement better support for real-time traffic (such as videoconference), IPv6 includes a flow label mechanism so routers can more easily recognize where to send information.

4. Plug and play: IPv6 includes plug and play, which is easier for novice users to connect their machines to the network. Essentially, configuration will happen automatically.

5. Better optimization: IPv6 takes the best of what made IPv4 successful and gets rid of minor flaws and unused features.

Why can’t IPv4 just be expanded?

There were many proposals regarding how to solve the problem with the availability of IPv4. The Internet community agreed that the approach of IPv6 is the best.

If we run out of IPv4 addresses, will that mean I will not be able to connect to the Internet?

No, you will still be able to connect to the Internet as you normally do.

Will I need to purchase new equipment to support IPv6?

Your computer probably already supports IPv6, but you should upgrade to the latest version of your operating system and browser. Most network-capable consumer electronics don’t use IPv6 yet, but may with a future software or firmware update. 

Will mobile and wireless devices work on IPv6?

Yes. Mobile and wireless devices will work with IPv6.

Is there any way for me to check my IPv6 readiness?

Yes. But call your internet service provider.

Websites that also provide general IPv6 information include:

The Internet Society - http://www.isoc.org/internet/issues/ipv6.shtml

The American Registry of Internet Numbers - http://www.getipv6.info/index.php/Main_Page

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPv6

Uverse Is Not Working. All Services Down.

It is important that you understand the lights on your gateway for you to know what steps you need to take if you're having a hard or no time calling tech support.

                                 

 


1. POWER-

a. off-the RG (Residential gateway) is not receiving power. What to do? Make sure that your modem is connected to a working power outlet. To test if it's an outlet issue or not, try another device. If it doesn't work then it's an outlet/power strip issue. For customers that have a battery back up especially with voice lines, make sure that the power of the battery back up is on. On the back of the battery back up, there is a power button. Just press it once and it should light up.
b. solid green- the RG is on.
c. flashing red-the RG is rebooting. Just wait for a few seconds, it will turn into solid green.
d. solid red-RG malfunction occurred, reboot didn't go through. What to do? Try resetting the modem. On the back of the RG there is a red reset button. (Check picture below) Just hold it down for more than 10 seconds. Take note that if you do this, you will lose whatever personal settings you have on your modem. 


If all troubleshooting fails, then call 8002882020, your modem needs replacement. 


2. Local Ethernet, USB - PC, Wireless, and HomePNA


a. off- no device is connected. 


For local ethernet, make sure the computer is connected and working properly. If a receiver is connected, refer to this link light off. Try a reboot.


USB-PC, the USB portion is disabled. So this light should always be off.


Wireless- Check if the wireless switch is on on your computer. Refer to computer's manual on how to do it. Try a reboot on your modem if the switch is on.


HomePNA- Make sure you have TV service and the Uverse box is connected. Reset your modem. Take note that if you do this, you will lose whatever personal settings you have on your modem. 


b. solid green- device is connected or linked
c. flashing green- indicates that there is activity. This is the normal light on your modem.


3. Broadband-


a. off- there is no physical connection. If modem is rebooting, wait for at least 3-5 minutes. Make sure your modem is properly connected. 
b. solid green- this should be the light on the modem. 
c. flashing green- the modem is trying to connect. 
d. flashing red/solid red- no broadband connection. What to do? Make sure that the cable line is properly connected on the back of the modem. If you have an fttp type of network (check my notes below on how to determine if you have fttp or fttn type of network), make sure that there is something connected to the broadband (2wire 3800 hgv) or ONT (2wire 3801) red port on the back of the modem. For customers with voice service or self install using 3600, make sure that the phone cord is connected to phone line/ DSL (green port).

If wirings are correct, try resetting your modem. If it remains red, then you must call tech support. Either there is a network outage, or there is some outside issues that need to be fixed. 

e. flashing red and green- modem failed to establish connection. Try turning off your modem for at least 1 minute. If it is still happening, call tech support. Your modem needs replacement. 


4. Service-

a. off- make sure the modem is on. If modem is on, follow the steps below for flashing service light.

b. solid red/ flashing red/ flashing red and green- for fttn type of network, make sure that NOTHING is connected into the red broadband or ONT port. If nothing is connected, try rebooting your box. If it doesn't work, call tech support. Most likely, there is an on going network outage.

Back of 2wire 3800 hgv. For 3801, the broadband port is labeled ONT and the phone line is labeled DSL

What if it is your battery back up which is not working? 

Check what brand of battery back AT&T provided you. If it is Belkin battery call the Belkin Battery Backup Dedicated Support at 866-539-5791 or go to http://www.belkin.com/gatewaybattery/. If you have fttp type of network and using ONT, call GS battery at 800-472-2879 or go to GS webstore. Why am I telling you to call these numbers? Because even if you call tech support, they will be transferring you to those numbers.

How to determine if you're using an fttp or fttn type of network? 

Simple, check outside your house or backyard, check if you have a battery back up labeled ONT. That means that you have an fttp type of network. If none, just a regular phone box, then it is an fttn type of network. Optical Network Terminal (ONT) which is a box typically located on the side of your house or in your garage, where AT&T's fiber network terminates.

ONT

NAD Error 2902

Most of the AT&T customers who have a dry loop IPDSL account usually gets an NAD error 2902 due to the non usage of filters to connect their NVG510 router. AT&T is currently aware of this issue and is working towards updating the firmware. Though, you may get this message, you will still be able to browse websites. But if you don't want it popping up, you have to click the "do not show" button to get rid of this.

Once you're done, don't forget to change settings on your internet explorer. Just click Tools and go to internet options. Under browsing history click settings and choose Everytime I start internet explorer. (Refer to figures below.)

Unable To Connect To The Internet

I have been discussing troubleshooting steps relating to Uverse services. I forgot that I would like to help other customers. What I will be giving you are just basic steps. You may still need to call your service provider if everything else fails.

1. First you need to check if your modem or router is powered on and there is no unusual lights. Like for example the power is red. Usually if the power led light is red it indicates that the modem is bad. Also, check if there is something disconnected from your modem and your computer.

2.After checking the modem, check if the IP address of your computer or any device that needs internet. Remember a 192.168.1.100 is a valid IP but in some instances like for Time Warner Cable Internet, it means that the modem is on stand by mode and you need to press the stand by button to turn it on again.

How an IP address looks like

3. If the IP address is correct try rebooting your modem and computer or other devices. If the IP address is not valid, check if there is something wrong with your computer's network adapter. Make sure that the firewall does not block any network traffic and it is updated and not expired. 

4. If step number 3 is done, and you're still not able to connect to the internet, check if the TCP/IP settings are correct. For service providers that uses DHCP connection, please make sure that the TCP/IP is set to obtain IP and DNS server addresses automatically.*

5. Check the browser settings. Make sure that your browser is set to never dial a connection or there is nothing  in the box where it says dial up and virtual network. And make sure there is no proxy. If your browser is looking good, try deleting browsing history or if you have not saved any websites in your favorites, try resetting your browser. **

*For computers which has VPN set up, try to set the IP to automatic first. Make sure you write down the IP settings of your company before making any changes to your computer.

**You can save the bookmarks or favorites on your computer first.

From DSL To Uverse

What do you need to know when you switch your internet from AT&T dsl to Uverse?

     I am going to discuss a few basic things about switching your internet account from dsl to Uverse. Depending on location, it is important that you know your primary email address, the type of boxes you're using, and what are the features and benefits. As I mentioned on my previous blog, Uverse has 3 types of connection: regular Uverse, ipdsl and INID. When I use the term regular uverse, your modem is either 3800 or 3801 hgv which can support internet, tv and cvoip (phone) services. This is commonly used by residences below 3000 feet from the pole or control box. IPDSL uses Motorola, Linksys or 2wire 2701. INID is a little bit different because it uses an outside unit which is 2wire i3812v which is considered the NID box/remote gateway and a router i38hg which is the inside unit which supports the internet portion of the service.  It is important that you know what type of account you have so it will be easy for you to get help when calling tech support. 

     It is a must that you know your primary email address because it will serve as your log in to check, pay and manage your account online, for those who have the regular uverse and INID accounts, you can use your primary email to manage your DVR remotely, log in to hbogo and max go, check emails (if you're using it as your personal email), to name a few. 

     If you had dsl take note that you may need to migrate your email for you to keep it. Remember that once, your account is terminated, it will be hard for us to restore it as the tools to reset the password for dsl account has been removed for agent use. It is important for you to know the primary email and its password to prevent any inconvenience. In case the install tech forgets to register your account and you need help with registering or migrating your account, you can follow the steps on https://lsreg.att.net. 

     For those who have Uverse tv, you only have 1 dvr box which controls the pausing, rewinding and fast forwarding of live tv. If that does not work then you won't be able to record programs, pause, rewind, fast forward live tv and pull up recordings. And depending on the proximity, you are allowed to have as much as 4 hd streams. 

     With Uverse you can bundle all your service. You have everything linked. Access to your account is easy and there are many ways and work around when one thing does not work. However, the only disadvantage that you can get is when the modem is down, everything is down. 

INID and Uverse Is Not Working

     You have uverse and you have a bundled service e.g. iptv, phone and internet. What do you need to do if all services are not working? Honestly, you don't have to do anything on your end. The type of connection that you have is a bit different from the regular uverse account because you have 2 units where your service is connected. But the main unit is located outside which is the 2wire i312v. It controls whatever you have inside. You need to call AT&T right away because it could be there is an outage, inside or outside wiring issue. If the latter is the problem there is a need for a dispatch. If the problem has something to do with the inside wiring, you need to make sure you're subscribed to the home wiring protection plan for you not to be charged. Better pay $5 a month than pay $55 for labor and a minimum of $55 for wires (This is one time payment.)

     What if you have tv and phone working and internet is not? Make sure it is not a computer issue. Check below the picture guide if you have everything connected right and look at the LED indicators on your 2wire i38HG this inside unit which is the router.

Add caption

The green port should be connected to a working phone wall outlet. It gives data signal to your router.

The light indicators should be correct.

Please note that you can reboot the inside unit but not the outside unit. Do not attempt to troubleshoot i3812 which is the outside unit because this is being serviced by your provider. And you don't wanna be accused of tampering. If after rebooting the router and your internet is not working like the nid led light didn't come up then call uverse and ask them to repair the outside unit.
If your inside unit, i38hg is problematic, it keeps rebooting, meaning you frequently see a red power light, then call this number right away: 877-334-8112. (This phone is for INID customers only. If you are NOT and you wanna try that number, prepare to wait for more than 30 minutes for you to be transferred to the right department.) That means you need to have your box replaced. If it has something to do with the other LED , just try rebooting it.

If you have any question, feel free to ask me.

What You Need To Do In Case You Just Paid Your Bill And Services Are Still Not Working

     A lot of people gets frustrated when their tv/internet account get suspended and you paid your bill and after a few hours the services are still down. Here are the simple steps that fix the problem without you calling for help:

     Remember that sequence reboot or restart of your equipment help straighten things up. First, you need to unplug the cords of the modem/router. (This applies to all internet servie providers.) Then restart your computer. Take note that if you have uverse your cable boxes are connected to the modem. Usually they use 2wire gateways. Once, the modem/router establishes connection, restart your computers and cable boxes. How? Just hold down the power button (which is the oblong green light on the left side of your box). If it doesn't work, then unplug the power cord of your cable box.

How To Find The Wireless Security On Your Uverse Gateway

Black Friday is coming and I am sure a lot of people are buying laptops, TV's, I-phones and other gadgets that they want to connect to their wireless/wifi. I am pretty sure, tech support will be swamped.

Here's my little tip, if you have not customized your wireless password/passphrase/WEP/WPA, just look for your gateway box. If you are using a 2wire box, it's found on it. If the box is standing upright, you need to turn it to the left and you will find bar coded stickers there. Just locate the wireless network key which is a ten (10) digit number. Don't be confused with the system password or device access code. That 10 digit code is for you to change wireless settings.

Now, if you have customized your wireless password and you have a windows 7 PC, you're lucky. There's a way for you to look for the key. Just go to the wireless properties and go to the security tab and check the box that says show characters and boom! There's the key that you can copy.

Should you have any questions, comments, suggestions, clarifications, feel free to post it. :)