IPv6 isn't just IPv4 with extra knobs. Adding it into a codebase implies a heavyweight process. Its 200kLOC. I suspect that any CPE implementation is smaller, I am betting that IPSEC and V6 multicast/anycast is not there. I would love to believe a linux kernel or BSD kernel would 'just work' -But with other hats on, I cannot fault Billion for being cautious in their deployment.
Supply chain dynamics are complicated. I asked Alain Durand, the IPv6 proponent in Comcast (at that time) about it, and the indications I got back are that 6 months lead time on a major revision to product was normal. A bug could be hugely disruptive to that process and it goes directly to the bottom line. Imagine where IPv6 sits in their planning if they have real NAT issues? Which one affects more customers right now? How much revenue does Billion get if they retrofit IPv6 into existing product?
I wish the IPv6 in the 7800NL was tunnel enabled, I wish my ISP had either a tunnel head, or native ATM bearer implementation, but neither is true. Wishing isn't going to help here. Some realism and a willingness to pay might, and thats why I bought a 7800NL: My ISP might not support it yet (TPG) but I put money on the table to try and do "my bit"
So I am still glad Billion has begun the process to get something 'out there' even if I'm having to accept some realities.
-G
People don't go to a store and buy a modem based on a chipset. They go based on what features are listed and the reputation of the company.
If Billion can't produce firmware for their current premier models for IPv6 then this will damage their reputation.
I agree with this, I think the least Billion can do is put IPv6 ready! stickers on the models which can (or will do) IPv6 – this at least highlights the high end ones won't do it, without outright saying "This can't do IPv6!"
I think the least Billion can do is put IPv6 ready! stickers on the models which can (or will do) IPv6
It already does. The 7800NL have the IPv6 Ready stickers on them at least the ones with the current shipping firmware out of the box.
Neither does the spec sheet for the DLink DSL 2642B but it also has it – for less than $70.
Where abouts does D-Link say IPv6 in their doco? Had a quick look on the Au website in specs, patch notes, etc., and couldn't see any mention.
It already does. The 7800NL have the IPv6 Ready stickers on them at least the ones with the current shipping firmware out of the box.
The spec sheet makes mention of 7800NL A for annex-M. Does that do IPv6 as well?
Interesting news, do Billion make routers? Might be time to look into just plain routers or fibre modems – in 2 to 5 years time the Aussie market may not need half as many DSL modems :(
Interesting news, do Billion make routers? Might be time to look into just plain routers or fibre modems – in 2 to 5 years time the Aussie market may not need half as many DSL modems :(
7404 and 7800 both can support external wan connections :)
Engineers are currently working on this, should be supported Q1 2011.
I've got a 7404-VGOM, I'd really rather not shell out another $400 for a new one. I'm unconvinced that the v6 stack cannot be ported to theses.