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IPv6, or Internet Protocol Version 6, is the successor to IPv4 that provides a much larger address space for internet-connected devices. It is a 128-bit protocol, compared to IPv4's 32-bit system, allowing for a practically unlimited number of addresses. Key features include automatic configuration via Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC), the Neighbor Discovery Protocol (NDP) to replace ARP, and embedded support for security features like IPsec.

IPv6 description and key terms

128-bit address: A 128-bit address is the core of IPv6, providing an enormous number of unique addresses, far exceeding the limitations of IPv4.

Address compression: To make addresses easier to read, leading zeros can be omitted and a double colon can replace a single instance of one or more consecutive groups of zeros.

Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC): This mechanism allows a device to automatically configure its own IPv6 address based on information it receives from the local network, simplifying network administration.

Neighbor Discovery Protocol (NDP): This protocol replaces IPv4's Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) and handles functions like address resolution, router discovery, and neighbor reachability.Internet Control Message Protocol for IPv6 (ICMPv6): This protocol is used for error reporting and diagnostics, which are crucial for network troubleshooting and management.