The Internet is present in virtually every aspect of our lives today. People use the network to have fun, work, study, do business, connect with friends and family.

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ne of the main technologies of the Internet is the Internet Protocol (IP), a set of rules necessary for computers and other devices to “talk to each other”. This protocol is responsible for giving a unique address to each device connected to the network, allowing data sent from a computer to have a path to its destination.

Since 1983, the Internet has used version 4 of the Internet Protocol (IPv4). This version of the IP protocol allows the connection of up to 4 billion devices on the Internet, but the emergence of new technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT – Internet of Things), demanded an evolution in this protocol.

What is IoT?

IoT is a concept that refers to the digital interconnection of everyday devices and objects with the Internet, such as refrigerators, televisions and even light bulbs. Such devices aim to increase, among other reasons, the safety, health and comfort of people in their homes and workplaces, allowing the remote control of these devices via the Internet.

It is estimated that by 2025, more than 75 billion IoT devices will be connected to the network. The need for new unique addresses due to the growing number of devices connected to the Internet required a new version of the IP protocol, IPv6, officially launched in 1998 and used on a large scale from 2012.

What security risks does IPv6 pose and why can Flashbox help?

IPv6 brings, among other benefits, a significant increase in the number of addresses available compared to the previous version, but we need to be aware of “new” security risks, both for providers and broadband customers.

One of the most latent examples of security risks is the obsolescence of NAT (Network Address Translation) in IPv6 networks as a form of “firewall” against intruders. NAT allows IPv4 to assign addresses that are not accessible from the Internet to devices. This allows multiple devices to surf the internet using a single address and brings a sense of security as these devices are safe from attacks coming from the internet.

The lack of NAT in IPv6 networks leaves most devices directly accessible from any point on the internet.

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With that, without the presence of NAT, it is necessary to pay attention to firewall rules well configured in each device used in a residence and firewall rules correctly configured in Wi-Fi routers, as this is the great gateway for internet access in home networks.

Unfortunately, many Wi-Fi routers currently do not have the care for a correct firewall configuration, putting the security and privacy of many users at risk. If a broadband user does not have a lock implemented on their device (cell phone, TV, laptop), any communication can pass from within the home network to the internet and vice versa. Ever wondered if an electronic lock with remote access is hacked and home security is exposed? This would be a very serious and real situation in the current scenario.

Fortunately, for providers and users of Flashbox, this security risk has now been addressed. Flashbox has an IPv6 firewall by default and correctly configured, ensuring the security of residential and commercial networks, also blocking any strange communication in IPv6.

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