Computer Networking · Advanced level

Advanced level · Module 1: Routing and Switching in Depth · Lesson 3 of 4

IPv6 Addressing

Plan and configure IPv6 alongside IPv4.

In this lesson you will

  • Read and abbreviate IPv6 addresses
  • Configure dual-stack networks

Key concepts

IPv6 formatglobal and link-local addresses/64 subnetsSLAAC and DHCPv6

The lesson

IPv6 addresses are 128 bits, written as eight groups of hexadecimal; leading zeros and one run of zero groups can be shortened with ::.

LANs normally use /64 subnets. Devices have a link-local address (fe80::) and one or more global addresses.

Devices can configure addresses automatically with SLAAC, or receive them from DHCPv6. Dual-stack networks run IPv4 and IPv6 together.

Step by step

  1. Abbreviate five addresses.
  2. Plan /64 subnets from a /48.
  3. Configure router interfaces.
  4. Test IPv6 connectivity.

Practice activity

Add IPv6 to the lab network.

Expected result: Working dual-stack addressing.

Check your understanding

  1. What prefix length do IPv6 LANs normally use?

    Show answer

    /64.

  2. What do link-local addresses start with?

    Show answer

    fe80::.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.