What Does Link-local Address Mean in 200-301?
Also known as: FE80, link-local
Quick Definition
An IPv6 address automatically assigned to every interface, only valid on the local link (FE80::/10).
Full Definition
Link-local addresses begin with FE80::/10 and are automatically generated on every IPv6-enabled interface using EUI-64 or a random algorithm. They are non-routable — they are only valid for communication on the directly connected link. Link-local addresses are used for neighbour discovery (NDP), router discovery, and are required for all IPv6 operations even before a global address is assigned.
Real-World Example
FE80::1 is a manually configured link-local address. Hosts automatically generate link-local addresses so they can communicate with local routers and neighbours even without DHCP or manual configuration.
Exam Trap — Don't Get Fooled
Link-local addresses are NOT routable between networks. A router does not forward packets with a link-local source or destination address. They are only valid on the local segment.
Related 200-301 Terms
A globally routable IPv6 address equivalent to a public IPv4 address (2000::/3).
An IPv6 mechanism where hosts automatically generate their own global address from the network prefix advertised by a router.
A method of generating a 64-bit IPv6 interface ID from a 48-bit MAC address.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Link-local Address mean on the 200-301 exam?
Link-local addresses begin with FE80::/10 and are automatically generated on every IPv6-enabled interface using EUI-64 or a random algorithm. They are non-routable — they are only valid for communication on the directly connected link. Link-local addresses are used for neighbour discovery (NDP), router discovery, and are required for all IPv6 operations even before a global address is assigned.
How does Link-local Address appear as a trap on the 200-301?
Link-local addresses are NOT routable between networks. A router does not forward packets with a link-local source or destination address. They are only valid on the local segment.
Can you give a real-world example of Link-local Address?
FE80::1 is a manually configured link-local address. Hosts automatically generate link-local addresses so they can communicate with local routers and neighbours even without DHCP or manual configuration.
How important is Link-local Address on the 200-301 exam?
Link-local Address falls under the IPv6 domain of the 200-301 exam. Understanding it in context with related terms like global-unicast-address and slaac is essential for answering scenario-based questions correctly.