Xerus Upgrade Brings IPv6 Compliance to Server Technology PRO3X and PRO4X Rack PDUs

The U.S. government has established September 30, 2025, as the deadline for transitioning 80% of the systems used by federal agencies and contractors from IPv4 to IPv6-only networks. Although this date may seem distant, it is vital to start planning now, especially since complex integrations and upgrades will be required. Fortunately, you won’t need to worry whether Server Technology Rack PDUs will be compatible with IPv6.  

As part of an upgrade of the Xerus 4.3.0+ Firmware, Server Technology PRO3X and PRO4X Rack PDUs now carry two important certifications: 

• IPv6 Ready Gold Logo certification for IPv6 readiness 
• USGv6-r1 certification for compliance with specifications for Core, State Less Address Auto Configuration (SLAAC), Address Architecture, and IPv6-Only 

These certifications assure enterprises, government agencies, and other organizations that Rack PDUs running Xerus 4.3.0+ have the capabilities and security controls required for IPv6.

Why the Certifications Matter 

Products certified as IPv6 Ready Gold and compliant with USGv6-r1 can help speed up the transition to IPv6 networks while effectively addressing cybersecurity risks. Although these certifications are related and both promote IPv6 adoption, they stem from different testing programs. 

The IPv6 Ready Gold Logo certifies that networking products comply with IPv6 standards and protocols. Products displaying this logo are confirmed to be compatible with IPv6 technologies, ensuring seamless connectivity in an IPv6 environment. 

USGv6 is part of an independent third-party testing program developed by the NIST. It verifies compliance of everyday network products with IPv6 specifications, such as interoperability between multiple systems and support for future Internet traffic demands.  

Further Security Enhancements 

As part of this new Firmware update, Xerus’s cryptographic module now meets FIPS 140-2 Level 1 qualification. This NIST standard deals with cryptography, specifying a specific cryptographic standard to use when, for example, a browser connects with a PDU. The certification is specific to a cryptographic software module used in Xerus but does not cover the entire firmware.  

Encryption standards must be updated periodically because security algorithms evolve to remain effective. Any product source code changes, including firmware upgrades, necessitate recertification under FIPS 140-2 Level 1. 

The Xerus upgrade also includes a Secure Element, a small chip isolated from a product's central processor that enables the storage of cryptographic keys. The chip is engineered to prevent unauthorized access to or theft of keys.  

Learn More 

As IPv6 adoption grows, organizations must ensure their products are compatible with this new protocol to avoid disruptions and facilitate seamless integration into IPv6-enabled commercial and government environments. With the certifications provided by Xerus 4.3.0+ Firmware, you can be confident that Server Technology PRO3X and PRO4X Rack PDUs are ready for IPv6. This readiness will help you manage the transition more easily.  

Find out more by visiting our website, https://www.servertech.com/products/pro4x-pdu.