Quiz Entry - updated: 2026.07.14
What are the three types of IPv6 addresses?
Unicast (one-to-one), multicast (one-to-many), and anycast (one-to-nearest) — there is NO broadcast in IPv6.
* The three address categories, with unicast's three sub-types and their prefixes. *
IPv6 Address Types:
| Type | Description | Equivalent in IPv4 |
|---|---|---|
| Unicast | One-to-one; identifies single interface | Unicast |
| Multicast | One-to-many; packet sent to group members | Multicast (+ broadcast functionality) |
| Anycast | One-to-nearest; sent to closest member of group | No direct equivalent |
Critical difference from IPv4:
There is NO broadcast address in IPv6!
Broadcast functionality is handled by multicast addresses instead.
Unicast Types:
- Global Unicast (GUA) - Internet routable
- Link-Local (LLA) - Local link only
- Unique Local - Similar to IPv4 private
Multicast:
- All multicast addresses start with ff00::/8
- Replaces IPv4 broadcast
Anycast:
- Same address assigned to multiple interfaces
- Packet delivered to "nearest" one (routing metrics)
Go deeper:
Sunny Classroom — IPv6: six types of unicast — a clear whiteboard walk-through of the unicast/multicast/anycast families.
RFC 4291 §2 — IPv6 Addressing Architecture — defines unicast, anycast and multicast and states there is no broadcast.- IPv6 address (Wikipedia) — overview of the three address types and their scopes.