After reading the statement we asked Cisco if the words, "consumers will need new routers and gateways that support IPv6" meant that Cisco will require its customers to buy new routers with IPv6 support when those routers become available. We asked again if there would be some path for those who have recently bought new routers to get IPv6 when Cisco deploys it, and if those owning older routers will also be offered IPv6 support.

We received no response.

However, when we asked Netgear similar questions, a company spokesperson told us, "Most Netgear routers today not only support IPV6, but are certified as well. We are working on IPv6 support for all our current shipping routers and it will be available to customers in the form of a firmware upgrade."

For example, Netgear's IPv6 Forum's certified routers include the WNDR3700, WNR1000, WNDR3400, WNR3500L and WNR3500. Its new dual-band gigabit router, the WNDR3800, announced at CES http://www.networkworld.com/news/2011/010511-ces-netgear.html and competing with the Linksys E4200, will also support IPv6 when it ships in the spring. Likewise, the IPv6 Forum listed dozens of other consumer routers that are already certified and ready for the day when they would be asked to route an IPv6 address.

In the meantime, if the E4200 has taken your fancy, might we recommend that you follow Cisco's advice and "begin looking for products and devices that support IPv6"? Just sayin'.