Guidance

Rule 6: ICT shall be compliant with internet protocol (IP) policy

Updated 16 October 2023

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/joint-service-publication-jsp-604-network-rules/rule-6-ict-shall-be-compliant-with-internet-protocol-ip-policy

The rules are under review and subject to change.

1. Rule requirement

1.1 Internet Protocol (IP)

Defence ICT shall be IPv4 based and IPv6 compatible in line with MOD policy.

2. Rule rationale

Standardisation of network communication protocols, as represented at Layer 3 of the OSI Reference Model, allows for compatibility between any network-connected devices.

IPv4 and IPv6 are the de facto standard Layer 3 network protocols. All equipment procured must be capable of supporting IPv6 either now or as a result of an identified manufacturer’s roadmap for providing IPv6 capability.

However, IPv6 must not be enabled on the network until its use has been sanctioned by Defence policy. A future migration to IPv6 will require careful planning and Defence-wide coordination in order to maintain interoperability and security.

3. Who to contact

For all queries, email ISSDes-APM@mod.gov.uk

4. Rule requirements: process

4.1 Internet protocol (IP)

  • Project shall engage with the ISS DES Arch to understand the MoD IP requirements

  • Projects shall identify the requirement to implement and test IP in their draft SRD

  • Projects shall identify the requirement to test IP operation in their ITEAP

Main gate

  • Project shall engage with the ISS DES Arch to understand the MoD IP requirements

  • Projects shall identify the requirement to test IP operation in their ITEAP

PDR

  • Projects shall provide design documentation to show intended compliance with IP requirements

  • ISS DES Arch are to approve the projects intended implementation

  • Projects shall identify the requirement to implement and test IP in their SRD

  • Projects shall identify the requirement to test IP operation in their ITEAP

CDR

  • Projects shall provide design documentation to show intended compliance with IP requirements. ISS DES Arch are to approve the projects intended implementation.

  • Projects shall identify the requirement to test IP operation in their ITEAP

TRRA

  • Projects shall provide evidence obtained through testing on a representative environment that IP operates as per design requirements
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