Which IPv6 prefix is designated for link-local addresses?

Which IPv6 prefix is designated for link-local addresses?

• A. 2000::/3
• B. fe80::/10
• C. ff00::/8
• D. ::1/128

Answer: (B)

The IPv6 prefix designated for link-local addresses is fe80::/10. Link-local addresses are used for communication between nodes on the same link or network segment and are automatically configured on all IPv6-enabled interfaces. The address range that begins with the prefix fe80::/10 encompasses addresses from fe80:: to febf:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff. Link-local addresses are primarily used for functions such as automatic address configuration, neighbor discovery, and routing protocol operations within the local network segment. They are not routable beyond the local link, ensuring that traffic remains contained within the local network. In contrast, the other prefixes serve different functions: 2000::/3 is reserved for global unicast addresses, ff00::/8 is reserved for multicast addresses, and ::1/128 is the loopback address for the local host, typically used to refer to the sender itself in network communications.

The IPv6 prefix designated for link-local addresses is fe80::/10. Link-local addresses are used for communication between nodes on the same link or network segment and are automatically configured on all IPv6-enabled interfaces. The address range that begins with the prefix fe80::/10 encompasses addresses from fe80:: to febf:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff:ffff.

Link-local addresses are primarily used for functions such as automatic address configuration, neighbor discovery, and routing protocol operations within the local network segment. They are not routable beyond the local link, ensuring that traffic remains contained within the local network.

In contrast, the other prefixes serve different functions: 2000::/3 is reserved for global unicast addresses, ff00::/8 is reserved for multicast addresses, and ::1/128 is the loopback address for the local host, typically used to refer to the sender itself in network communications.