IPv6 or Internet Protocol version 6 is being introduced by Internode as a successor to current IPv4 addresses, most of which are estimated to run out within the next two years.

The trial aims to establish a series of longer new addresses for Internode broadband customers who operate a direct Ethernet connection to Internode's own ADSL network.

Internode's move towards IPv6 isn't exactly a new direction for the company. Founded in 1991 by Managing Director Simon Hackett, the ISP has been running an IPv6 backbone since July 2008 using a 'dual stack mode' router, a function that gives the ISP an extra option to run IPv4 and IPv6 services concurrently - and the chance for any computer or router that supports the new protocol, to also access it.

Australians will for the first time have access to the next-gen protocol under the Internode trial, but with one minor conceit - only customers with proper technical experience are being advised to take part.

People interested in the trial should be familiar with the IPv6 protocol and eager to get their hands dirty testing the equipment, ensuring Internode gain valuable feedback in the process.

However, the trial isn't destined to be a walk in the park for Internode. Due to the lack of consumer ADSL routers in Australia supporting the IPv6 protocol, Internode recommends aspiring trial participants to use certain routers, including a Cisco 877 ADSL in bridge mode. More details on how to join the trial can be found on the Internode website.

Simon Hackett, who recently broke the land distance record for an electric car in the Global Green challenge calls the ADSL router shortage a "chicken and egg problem", hoping that talks with manufacturers will result in the necessary firmware support for IPv6 functionality of ADSL2+ routers during the trial.

"By the time IPv6 becomes a necessary part of connecting new users to the Internet, Internode will offer the very best 'production' IPv6 service available in Australia. At that point, for all customers,IPv6 will 'just work", Hackett said.

Internode hope to complete the trial and commence delivering IPv6 services by mid-2010.