Belgian cable operator VOO has selected Cisco’s dual-stack technology to be deployed across the VOO network, allowing it to run IPv4 and IPv6 simultaneously in order to maintain a high-quality customer experience during the transition from IPv4 to IPv6.

With the dual-stack strategy, both IPv4 and IPv6 can coexist across the network, allowing a gradual transition for the service provider and its customers and devices on the VOO network will be able to run both systems in parallel.

The dual-stack strategy will incorporate the Cisco Carrier-Grade IPv6 Solution (CGv6), a portfolio of products and services designed to help businesses adopt IPv6 in a controlled, safe and cost-effective manner.

In addition, the Cisco offering will include the deployment of the Cisco CRS-3 Carrier Routing System and the Cisco Cable Modem Termination Systems (CMTS).

The Cisco CRS-3, powered by Cisco QuantumFlow Array, is tailored to help service providers prepare for the rapid rise in network traffic fuelled by the growth in video content, mobile traffic, and cloud data centres.

The Cisco offering will also incorporate Cable DOCSIS 3.0 network technology, giving VOO the foundation it needs to deploy faster, more consistent network speeds to its users.

Cisco Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia Service Provider Architectures CTO and head Paolo Campoli said by rolling out dual-stack network technology, service providers are able to maintain flexibility and scalability by allowing IPv4 and IPv6 to coexist.

"We are delighted to be working with VOO to implement this kind of dual-stack approach. At Cisco, we believe that this is the best way of reducing disruption and ensuring a smooth, cost-effective transition to IPv6. I expect to see many other service providers follow VOO’s lead in the coming months," said Campoli.