Chapter 3

NPTv6 using an intentionally non-routed GUA

This alternative model preserves normal Global Unicast Address semantics internally while still insulating the LAN from changes to the ISP-provided prefix.

3.1Architecture

Internal network2602:f925:ad::/48non-routed GUA semantics NPTv6GUA ↔ ISP GUA ISP prefixdynamic /56globally routed
Figure 3. Alternative model: an intentionally non-routed GUA prefix is used internally and translated to the ISP-provided prefix at the edge.

The internal addresses are syntactically and semantically GUA. They are not expected to be reachable directly through public routing; NPTv6 maps them to the ISP-side prefix used for actual Internet communication.

3.2The prefix

Shared, intentionally dark GUA
2602:f925:ad::/48

The entire /48 may be structured as required by an internal addressing plan. No registration process exists and no exclusive subdivision is granted.

This is an operational resource, not sample notation

The prefix is identified here for actual internal use behind NPTv6 by networks that accept the model and its limitations.

3.3Why not select a random GUA?

An arbitrary GUA may correspond to a legitimate network that is routed today or becomes routed later. Using it internally can make that legitimate destination unreachable from the local network because the internal route wins.

The prefix documented here differs in one essential respect: it has been deliberately excluded from production use under the current operator's control, publicly identified for this purpose, and subjected to routing controls intended to prevent normal global propagation.

Most GUA derives its value from global routability. This prefix derives its value from being intentionally non-routed.

3.4What this model provides

PropertyResult
Stable internal hierarchyThe /48 remains constant regardless of ISP renumbering.
Normal GUA classificationHosts evaluate the addresses as Global Unicast rather than ULA.
Large subnetting space256 /56 site blocks or 65,536 /64 LANs are available inside the shared /48.
No uniqueness guarantee between usersIndependent users may select the same internal subdivision, just as with other shared private-use conventions.

3.5What this model is not