What is an APIPA or Local-Link Address?

An APIPA (Automatic Private IP Addressing) or Link-Local Address is a self-assigned IP address automatically generated by a device when it cannot obtain an IP address from a DHCP server. These addresses are in the range of 169.254.0.0 to 169.254.255.255 and enable devices on the same local network to communicate without requiring a DHCP server. APIPA is often used in small or temporary networks, providing basic connectivity for troubleshooting or limited operations. However, these addresses are not routable, meaning they cannot be used for communication outside the local network segment.

A DHCP server is not required to obtain an APIPA. If a device is set to obtain an IP address automatically (via DHCP) but cannot find a DHCP server, it will auto-assign itself an APIPA address. This ensures the device can still communicate with other devices on the same local network that also have APIPA addresses, even in the absence of a DHCP server.

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