Quick answer
IPv6 is the newer internet address format. It matters because a connection may expose IPv6 separately from IPv4, so a complete IP or VPN check should look at both.
IPv4 vs IPv6
IPv4 is the older address format that most people still recognize. IPv6 is the newer format created to support far more devices and networks.
A site can see one, the other, or both depending on the device, browser, network, and ISP setup.
Why IPv6 matters in privacy checks
IPv4 changed but IPv6 did not
That can mean part of your connection is still visible outside the VPN tunnel.
IPv6 is not always enabled
Some providers or devices do not expose IPv6 at all, which is fine if the setup is intentional.
Different tools may show different results
Some services prefer IPv4 while others prefer IPv6, so comparing both helps avoid false confidence.
VPNs need to handle both paths
A good VPN setup should either route IPv6 through the tunnel or block it in a controlled way.
What to check next
If IPv6 is visible, compare it before and after connecting a VPN. If it remains unchanged while IPv4 changes, that is worth investigating.
Use the live IP tool
See your public IPv4 and IPv6 together, then run the VPN and WebRTC checks if you want to compare the full privacy picture.
Frequently asked questions
Is IPv6 more private than IPv4?
Not automatically. Privacy depends on how the network is configured, not just on the protocol version.
Can IPv6 be leaked through a VPN?
Yes, if the VPN does not handle IPv6 correctly. That is why it should be checked separately.