Each device connected to the internet has a unique Internet Protocol (IP) address. Depending on your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and device, you may be connected to one of two types of IP addresses: IPv4 or IPv6. Shadow is not yet compatible with IPv6 addresses, and to use this service, an IPv4 address is required.
What is an IPv6 address?
IPv6 was created to increase the number of IP addresses available worldwide, ensuring everyone will have a unique address when connecting to the internet. IPv4 has approximately 4 billion unique IP addresses available. When we account for phones, computers, Wi-Fi enabled devices, and other devices, IPv4 isn't quite enough to support the world as we know it compared to IPv6.
For a high-level explanation of IPv6 addresses, see the United States FCC (Federal Communications Commission) reference, Internet Protocol Version 6: IPv6 for Consumers.
Can I use applications or games with IPv6 on Shadow?
Shadow requires an IPv4 address to connect to the service. Some applications and games may have an option to enable IPv6, such as World of Warcraft (pictured below). Disable IPv6 on any games or applications you use on Shadow and opt for IPv4 when possible.
In some tests, choosing IPv6 on World of Warcraft increased latency by nearly 300 milliseconds.
My Internet Service Provider uses IPv6. What should I do?
Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Your ISP may have the ability to change your network to use only IPv4 addresses.
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