Press Release
 

December 3, 2001

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

NTT Communications to Offer IPv6 Broadband Access Service
-World's first IPv6 connectivity for individuals and SOHOs, featuring plug-and-play and QoS-


NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com) announced today that it will introduce a totally new type of next-generation broadband access service based on IPv6 technology and featuring plug-and-play, secure and quality of service (QoS) functions. This will be the world’s first access service to use IPv6 connectivity with such functions.

NTT Com and ACCA Networks will provide the service from the first quarter of fiscal 2002.

In June 2001, NTT Com introduced the OCN IPv6 Tunneling Service using IPv6 over IPv4 tunneling technology, which provides IPv6 connectivity by encapsulating IPv6 packets in IPv4 packets for transmission by tunneling through existing IPv4 networks. The service provides customers still using current IPv4 Internet technology with an unlimited number of IPv6 addresses.


About the New Service

The new service is an IPv6/IPv4 dual-type service, which allows both IPv6 and IPv4 protocols to exist simultaneously on a single network. Native communications using either IPv6 or IPv4 exclusively are also possible, thereby providing a smooth transition to the IPv6 network environment for the future.

The service is targeted at individuals, SOHOs and sales branches of large corporations. People and companies that have strong needs for advanced Internet functions and have access to IPv6-compatible PCs and routers will particularly benefit from the service. Customers can use the service to create versatile next-generation networking environments in which the Internet is used to easily network with smart appliances and routers, as well as conduct safe and secure high-quality communications.

Initially, the service will be offered for ACCA's ADSL network. At a later date, it will be expanded to include fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and wireless networks, plus ADSL networks of other access providers.


Features

Plug-and-Play
The network automatically sets up the computer for network access. Users simply connect to the network to realize the full advantages of IPv6/IPv4 always-on Internet access.

Security
The network blocks illegal communications packets and provides the means to construct VPN with selected partners. There is no need to install special software. This feature will be provided after the broadband access service begins.

QoS
Optimal bandwidth is provided, thereby securing the necessary quality for each type of communication. This is particularly useful for stable transmission of video and voice. This feature will be provided after the broadband access service begins.


Related Developments

NTT Com and NEC Corporation are developing and plan to fully disclose their recommended specifications for the new IPv6 network's plug-and-play function. The two will work with companies inside and outside of Japan to create a consensus regarding the function, thus encouraging the development of reasonably priced and convenient next-generation Internet services.

NTT Com will also disclose the details of the user interface of the new IPv6 service at www.v6.ntt.net from around the middle of January 2002.

Going forward, NTT Com will also develop and introduce services that support migration from IPv4 to IPv6.