Datatek IPv6 Transformer User Manual - Manual (Page 10)

S E C T I O N 1 F A Q
10
Q6.
How hard is it to configure the Transformer?
A6.
The Transformer is shipped with a default configuration that provides basic capabilities for
a typical device. If this default configuration works for you, no changes are required. For more
complex features and special network configuration, the Transformer provides a secure, web-
based graphical user interface (GUI) that’s accessible from either the host or network side ports,
using either IPv4 or IPv6. In addition, a serial console interface enables initial configuration when
the LAN ports are unavailable.
Q7.
Why shouldn’t I just upgrade the software on my legacy device to support IPv6?
A7.
If you can, you should. However, this may be more difficult than it appears. The software
running on a legacy device typically consists of an operating system and several network
applications. Both the operating system and the network applications will need to be upgraded to
support IPv6. For older systems, upgrades for every component may not be available. Even
when upgrades are available, the cost of the new software and additional costs to re-test and re-
certify it may be prohibitive. In these cases, the Transformer is a cost-effective solution.
Q8.
How many legacy devices can a Transformer support?
A8.
The Transformer has a feature called Local Forwarding, which is used to add extra IPv4
host nodes with IPv4-IPv6 packet translation. This functionality is directed by ‘forward
mapping’. Without any forward mappings, the Transformer acts as a full IPv6 surrogate for one
IPv4 host. With forward mapping enabled, the Transformer can perform address and protocol
translation for additional IPv4 endpoints on the host-side network. However, the Transformer
cannot act as a full IPv6 surrogate for those other IPv4 endpoints.
Q9.
If I use a Transformer, can my legacy device still use IPv4 to communicate with
other legacy devices on the network that don’t have Transformers?
A9.
Yes. The Transformer adds IPv6 capability to a legacy device that only supports IPv4. It
doesn’t remove the legacy device’s IPv4 capability or connectivity.
Q10.
Can I put a Transformer between two routers?
A10.
No, that’s not supported.