The Internet is a constantly evolving environment which puts pressures on existing and evolving protocols. Any protocol changes must
be carefully designed and even more carefully deployed to avoid any disruption to the running system. It is no longer possible to
orchestrate a simple overnight switch, so engineers are considering various transition and evolution strategies. In this issue we
bring you two examples of this kind of evolutionary protocol development.
Our first example relates to IP Version 6 (IPv6). A great deal of effort is going into the deployment of IPv6, and good
transition strategies can help. Tejas Suthar explains how Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) can be used for a transition
from IPv4 to IPv6.
Our second example looks at a possible enhancement to the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). BGP in its current form is already
nearly ten years old, and calls for its replacement can be heard from network operators. Russ White discusses some possible changes
that would not require a wholesale protocol replacement.
It is not every day that a book on punctuation becomes an international best seller, and it is certainly not common for IPJ to
review such a noncomputer related book. But I think it is appropriate for several reasons. First, accurate punctuation is important
not just for computer parsers, it is important for all professionals whether we are sending quick emails or writing project
reports. Second, this is a really fun as well as informative book. And last, but not least, it gives me an opportunity to
introduce you to Bonnie Hupton, who provides copy-editing services for this journal. Without her help, IPJ would be far less
readable.
Our Website has a new look, but still contains links to our back issues,
index files and the
IPJ subscription system. Please take a moment to renew
or update your subscription. If you have questions or comments, please send them to ipj@cisco.com.