As we discussed earlier, IPv6 is the improved version of the internet protocol. The IPv6 header is one of the significant improvements over the IPv4 header. The header format has been dramatically simplified. Some header fields have been removed, and others have moved to the optional IPv6 Extension Header. The IPv6 header is only twice… Read more
IPv6 Header and Fields – Exclusive Details Read More »
The IETF developed IPv6 addresses to overcome the limitations of IPv4, meeting current and future network demands. In 2025, its 128-bit address space addresses the global IP shortage. It is an excellent development with features that better suit current and future network demands. In 2025, IPv6 adoption has accelerated due to the global surge in
Mastering IPv6 Addresses: Unlocking the Future of Networking in 2025 Read More »
When the IPv4 address was invented, it was not expected that the Internet would become so popular that millions of devices would use these IP addresses. The IETF defined IPv4 addresses in RFC 791, published in 1981. The first design of IPv4 did not anticipate the Internet’s growth, which created many issues that proved that
Limitations of IPv4: Challenges and Solutions in 2025 Read More »
In 2025, the IPv4 packet header remains widely used despite IPv6 adoption, supporting legacy systems and critical applications like industrial IoT, where its compact structure is advantageous in constrained environments. The network layer converts transport layer segments into packets, with the IPv4 packet encapsulating the data unit and adding header information. In 2025, this process
Mastering the IPv4 Packet Header: Insights for 2025 Networks Read More »
Connectionless No connection is established with the destination before sending data packets, defining a communication model where packets are sent without ensuring the recipient’s availability. This mirrors sending a letter without prior notice. In 2025, this efficiency supports real-time data in IoT, though retransmissions may increase with network congestion. Connectionless data communications work on the
Mastering IP’s Connectionless Protocol: Insights for 2025 Networks Read More »
The primary function of the network layer is to deliver packets from source to destination across multiple networks. It also specifies the packet structure and processing used to carry the data from one host to another. The layer routes the packet through different channels to the other end and acts as a network controller. Analogy
Mastering the Network Layer: Functions and Evolution in 2025 Read More »
Auto-MDIX (Automatic Medium-Dependent Interface Crossover) is a feature supported on Cisco switches and routers that automatically detects and configures the required cable type (straight-through or crossover) for Ethernet connections. This eliminates the need for network administrators to select or use specific cables when connecting devices manually. Historical Context In the past, connecting two network devices
What is Auto-MDIX Cisco? – Everything to Know Read More »
Duplex and Speed settings are the most basic settings for each switch port. By default, Cisco switches will auto-negotiate the speed and duplex settings. However, the switch port and connected devices, such as a computer or another switch, can mismatch the duplex and speed settings. Two types of duplex settings are used for communications on an
Mastering Duplex and Speed Settings for Ethernet Switches in 2025 Read More »
Ethernet switches employ memory buffering to manage data traffic efficiently, ensuring frames (data units) are temporarily stored when destination ports face congestion. Effective buffering is crucial to prevent frame loss, which can degrade network performance, increase latency, and trigger retransmissions, ultimately impacting user experience and reliability. This article explores buffering methods, their evolution, and their
Mastering Ethernet Switch Memory Buffering: Techniques for 2025 Networks Read More »
An Ethernet switch is a Layer 2 device. Therefore, the switch uses MAC addresses for switching decisions. It is unaware of the protocol being carried in the data portion of the frame, such as an IPv4 packet. The Ethernet hub repeats bits out of all ports except the incoming port, but an Ethernet switch consults
Switching Fundamentals – Everything to Know Read More »