IPv6 Security Considerations

IPv6 Security Considerations

IPv6 Security Landscape

IPv6 introduces security considerations different from IPv4. While IPv6 has security improvements like mandatory IPSec support, it also introduces new attack vectors through autoconfiguration, extension headers, and larger address space.

IPv6 Security

IPv6 Attacks

IPv6-specific attacks include RA flooding, ND spoofing, extension header abuse, fragmentation attacks, and dual-stack exploitation. Attackers exploit IPv6 when security controls focus only on IPv4 creating security gaps.

Security Controls

Implement RA guard preventing rogue router advertisements, ND inspection similar to ARP inspection, IPv6 access controls on firewalls, extension header filtering, and first-hop security features on switches.

Dual-Stack Security

Dual-stack environments require security for both IPv4 and IPv6. Ensure firewalls, IDS/IPS, monitoring, and security policies cover both protocols. Attackers exploit less-monitored IPv6 to bypass IPv4-focused security.

Transition Security

Secure IPv6 transition mechanisms like tunneling (6to4, Teredo), translation (NAT64), and dual-stack environments. Transition technologies can bypass security controls if not properly secured and monitored.

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