Published On: June 2, 2025Categories: News

Marco Schmidt to Speak at BalticNOG 2025: Driving IPv6 Adoption and Best Practices

  • Marco Schmidt

We’re excited to welcome Marco Schmidt, a seasoned leader in internet number resource management, as a speaker at BalticNOG 2025 in Vilnius. With over a decade of experience at the RIPE NCC, Marco brings deep operational insight into the policies and practices shaping how networks evolve, particularly around IPv6 deployment.

His session will focus on scaling IPv6 adoption, what’s working across the RIPE region, and how operators can overcome lingering challenges.

Why IPv6 Still Deserves the Spotlight

The transition to IPv6 has been discussed for over two decades, but we’re not there yet. Despite the depletion of IPv4, many networks are still dual-stacked or continue relying solely on IPv4 with workarounds like Carrier-Grade NAT (CGN).
This delay poses real risks:
  • Scalability issues for growing networks
  • Increased operational complexity and cost
  • Limited support for future-facing architectures and services
  • Security limitations due to outdated configurations and legacy compatibility
Meanwhile, IPv6 offers a future-proof solution with virtually unlimited address space, streamlined routing, and built-in security features.
However, deploying IPv6 effectively isn’t just a technical checkbox—it requires intelligent planning, stakeholder alignment, and operational readiness.
That’s precisely where Marco’s session comes in.

About the Speaker: Marco Schmidt

Marco Schmidt is the Manager of Registration Services at the RIPE NCC. He is responsible for the allocation and maintenance of IPv4, IPv6, and ASNs across the RIPE NCC’s service region and oversees how community-approved policies are implemented inside RIPE NCC operations.

His journey began as an IP Resource Analyst, directly supporting members with address space needs. Later, as the RIPE NCC’s Policy Development Officer, he worked closely with the RIPE community to shape fair and technically sound resource management policies.

This unique combination of operational and policy expertise makes Marco an ideal speaker on IPv6 adoption at BalticNOG.

What to Expect from Marco’s Session

At BalticNOG 2025, Marco will present a session focused on:
  • Current IPv6 adoption trends in the RIPE region and globally
  • Common roadblocks faced by ISPs, enterprises, and government networks
  • Best practices for smooth and scalable IPv6 deployment
  • Operational lessons from real-world deployments
Whether you’re still planning your IPv6 rollout or managing a dual-stack environment, Marco’s session will offer practical guidance and valuable insight into where the industry is heading.

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