ipv6 route [prefix/len] [next-hop]
Configures a static IPv6 route in the global routing table, specifying the destination prefix and next-hop address or exit interface.
ipv6 route [prefix/len] [next-hop]When to Use This Command
- Pointing a default route (::/0) to an ISP next-hop address for internet connectivity.
- Creating a static route to a remote branch network via a specific next-hop router.
- Using an exit interface (e.g., GigabitEthernet0/0) for directly connected static routes.
- Configuring a floating static route with a higher administrative distance as a backup.
Command Examples
Static route to a remote network via next-hop
ipv6 route 2001:db8:acad:2::/64 2001:db8:acad:1::2No output is generated on successful configuration. Use 'show ipv6 route static' to verify.
Default static route via exit interface
ipv6 route ::/0 GigabitEthernet0/0No output on success. The route is installed with next-hop as directly connected interface.
Understanding the Output
The 'ipv6 route' command produces no output upon successful entry. To verify, use 'show ipv6 route static' or 'show ipv6 route'. In the routing table, static routes appear with code 'S'. The output shows the prefix, next-hop, administrative distance (default 1), and metric (default 0). A valid route will have a next-hop reachable via a connected interface; if the next-hop is unreachable, the route will not be installed. Watch for 'S' entries with 'via' pointing to a valid next-hop or interface.
CCNA Exam Tips
Remember that the default administrative distance for static routes is 1, but you can change it with the 'distance' parameter.
For directly connected static routes, use an exit interface instead of a next-hop address to avoid recursive lookups.
CCNA exam may ask to configure a floating static route by setting a higher AD (e.g., 5) to back up a dynamic route.
Know that 'ipv6 route ::/0' creates a default route; the prefix length must be /0.
Common Mistakes
Forgetting to specify the next-hop or interface, causing the command to be rejected.
Using an incorrect prefix length (e.g., /64 instead of /0 for default route).
Configuring a static route with a next-hop that is not reachable, resulting in the route not being installed.
Related Commands
ipv6 unicast-routing
Enables IPv6 unicast routing on a Cisco router, allowing it to forward IPv6 packets and participate in IPv6 routing protocols.
show ipv6 route
Displays the IPv6 routing table on a Cisco router, showing all known IPv6 routes and their next-hop information for troubleshooting and verification of IPv6 routing.
show running-config
Displays the current active configuration in DRAM, showing all non-default settings.
Practice for the CCNA 200-301
Test your knowledge with hundreds of CCNA practice questions covering all exam domains.
Practice CCNA Questions