What the missing address means

An IPv6 check succeeds only when the complete path supports IPv6: the internet provider, modem or router, local network, operating system, browser and test endpoint. If any required layer uses IPv4 only, the browser cannot present a public IPv6 address.

Many networks use dual stack, where IPv4 and IPv6 operate together. Others remain IPv4-only or use transition systems that do not give the device ordinary end-to-end IPv6 connectivity.

Common reasons IPv6 is missing

The provider may not offer IPv6 on the current plan or location. A supported provider can still require IPv6 to be enabled in the router. Older routers, custom DNS or firewall rules, and outdated firmware can also interrupt the path.

VPN clients deserve a separate check. Some route only IPv4, some disable IPv6 to prevent traffic from leaving the tunnel, and others provide full IPv6 support. Compare the result with the VPN disconnected.

  • The ISP has not enabled IPv6 for the connection
  • IPv6 is disabled or unsupported in the modem or router
  • A VPN, firewall or security product blocks IPv6 traffic
  • The device received only a link-local address rather than a public prefix

A practical troubleshooting order

Confirm with your provider that IPv6 is available. Check the router's internet or WAN settings for an IPv6 mode recommended by that provider, then install current router firmware. Reconnect the device and test again without a VPN.

On a computer, inspect the network adapter details. Addresses beginning with fe80 are link-local and work only on the nearby network; they do not prove public IPv6 connectivity. Avoid disabling IPv4 while testing because most networks expect both protocols to coexist.

When no action is necessary

If websites load normally over IPv4, a missing IPv6 result is usually a capability limitation rather than an outage. IPv6 can improve address availability and network design, but the checker should report what the current connection actually supports.

Do not install random tunneling software solely to make a test turn green. Use the configuration supplied by your ISP or network administrator so DNS, firewall and routing behavior remain consistent.

No public IPv6 address is not automatically an error. IPv4 can still provide a normal internet connection while you check whether your provider and router offer IPv6.

Technical references

Primary standards and product documentation used to review this guide.