A “tunnel broker” is a service that offers a network tunnel, mostly associated with IPv6. Tunnel brokers are dedicated servers that handle user requests for tunnels automatically. They allow early adopters of IPv6 to connect to existing networks which can be difficult to install and maintain for the isolated end-user. The IPv6 global Internet already utilizes tunnels over the IPv4 infrastructure. The concept of a tunnel broker assists users and web sites in securing IPv6 tunnels by offering them to users directly. The Network Working Group defines IPv6 Tunnel Broker in RFC 3053.
What is a Tunnel Broker?
A Tunnel Broker is a service that offers a network tunnel to its users. In computer networking, a tunnel is a virtual connection between two networks, enabling data transfer between them securely. The Tunnel Broker architecture primarily consists of a group of dedicated servers that handle user requests for tunnels automatically.
The term Tunnel Broker is most frequently used in the context of IPv6, where it offers IPv6 tunnels to users and websites.
IPv6 global internet infrastructure uses multiple tunnels over the existing IPv4 infrastructure. Tunnel Broker enables early IPv6 adopters to connect to an existing network, allowing them to use tunnels as it is difficult for the end-users to install and maintain them.
How does Tunnel Broker work?
The Tunnel Broker architecture’s primary goal is to establish a virtual connection between two networks, allowing for secure data transfer. A Tunnel Broker consists of dedicated servers that facilitate the process of establishing a tunnel between two endpoints. Users’ requests are handled automatically by the servers, and these requests are served on a priority basis.
The Tunnel Broker server sends the necessary tunnel data to the user, which is then used to create and authenticate the tunnel. Once the connection is established, users can transfer data between the two networks securely.
Why use a Tunnel Broker?
The primary benefit of using a Tunnel Broker is that it provides a secure connection between two networks. This connection is essential for businesses that need to transfer confidential data over the internet. Tunnel Brokers also offer IPv6 tunnels to users, helping them connect to existing networks and enabling them to use IPv6 when their ISP does not support it.
Tunnel Brokers simplify the process of tunnel creation, making it easier for end-users to create and maintain tunnels. This benefit is particularly important for isolated end-users who do not have extensive technical expertise. Tunnel Broker services often offer user-friendly interfaces and automated settings, making the process of creating and managing tunnels more accessible.
The opinion
Tunnel Broker services play an essential role in modern network operations, particularly where secure data transfer is vital. IPv6 tunnels have become increasingly popular as technological advancements have made them more accessible to end-users. Tunnel Broker services help businesses and isolated end-users connect to existing networks, enabling them to take advantage of IPv6’s benefits.
Moreover, the automation offered by Tunnel Brokers simplifies the process of installing and maintaining tunnels while providing secure connections for users.
