The XBee Hive for Wi-SUN can operate as a DHCPv6 relay agent. Instead of assigning IPv6 addresses using its built-in DHCPv6 server, the XBee Hive for Wi-SUN can forward address requests from Wi-SUN clients to an upstream DHCPv6 server.

When enabled, the DHCPv6 relay listens on the Wi-SUN interface and forwards client address requests to the configured upstream server on the configured network interface. This allows integration with an existing DHCPv6 infrastructure, ensuring that address assignment is centralized and consistent across the network.

Use relay mode only when a properly configured upstream IPv6 network and DHCPv6 server are available

Typical Deployment

Use DHCPv6 relay when the Wi-SUN network is part of a larger enterprise or utility network where IPv6 address assignment must be managed by a central server rather than by the border router itself. Common scenarios include:

  • Enterprise IT environments: Centralized DHCPv6 servers provide consistent address management, logging, and policy enforcement across many border routers or network segments.

  • Utility or smart grid networks: Utilities often use dedicated DHCPv6 servers for address planning and integration with back-office systems.

  • Dual-stack or managed ISP connections: When the upstream service provider requires that all IPv6 assignments originate from their infrastructure, the border router acts only as a relay.

  • Networks with multiple BRs: Ensures that all Wi-SUN clients across multiple border routers receive addresses from the same authoritative source, avoiding fragmentation of the address space.

Relay mode is typically unnecessary in small or isolated Wi-SUN deployments where the border router’s internal DHCPv6 server can be used directly.

Configuration

You can configure the DHCPv6 relay in the Network→Interfaces→Wi-SUN→DHCPv6 Relay:

Field Default Value Description

Enable

False (disabled)

Turns the DHCPv6 relay on or off.

Interface

'ETH1'

The upstream interface used to forward DHCPv6 relay messages. Typically an Ethernet or WAN interface.

Server address

empty

The IPv6 address of the upstream DHCPv6 server. (Optional, relay forwards to the configured interface broadcast if empty).