NTT debuts IPv6-capable IP-VPN service

NTT, one of the loudest proponents of IPv6, is putting words to action as the Japanese operator will launch an IP-VPN service that will support both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols for business customers. Leveraging Alcatel-Lucent's next-gen service 7750 Service Router (SR), the IPv6 capabilities will be offered to business users as an option for its Arcstar IP-VPN service. Arcstar is Japan's first commercial IPv6-capable IP VPN service based on MPLS, according to NTT. This latest service follows NTT's initial IPv4-based enterprise play. But as NTT has started to run out of IPv4 addresses, the service provider can now allow IPv4 and IPv6 traffic to be run on one network.

The NTT is also significant for Alcatel-Lucent. Traditionally taking a back seat to Cisco and Juniper in the edge and core routing markets, Alcatel-Lucent is gaining increased traction in many high-profile service provider deployments. On the same day that it announced the NTT deal, Alcatel-Lucent won a contract from Cox Business, which will deploy the vendor's SR platform to expand its Ethernet service capabilities. What's more, rumors have emerged that Alcatel-Lucent may also be a finalist in an AT&T Ethernet services contract.

For more:
- Here's the official release

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