MAC to IPv6 Converter

How to Convert MAC to IPv6 Address

While there isn't a direct conversion between MAC addresses and IPv6 addresses, there is a common technique to generate an IPv6 Interface ID from a MAC address, which is commonly used in Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC).

Here's a general process:

Extract the MAC address: For example, if the MAC address is 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E, take the last 6 bytes (3C:4D:5E) as the MAC address.

Insert "FFFE": Insert "FFFE" in the middle of the MAC address. In our example, it becomes 3C:4D:FF:FE:5E.

Flip the "U/L" bit: Invert the second least significant bit of the first byte of the MAC address. In our example, if the first byte is 3C, invert the "U/L" bit, and it becomes 3E.

Combine: Combine the modified first byte with the "FFFE"-inserted part. In our example, the modified first byte is 3E, and the "FFFE"-inserted part is 3C:4D:FF:FE:5E. So, the IPv6 Interface ID is 3E3C:4DFF:FE5E.

Why Should You Convert MAC to IPv6?

Converting a MAC (Media Access Control) address to an IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) address is typically done to generate the interface identifier part of an IPv6 address.

This process is commonly used in Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC), a method by which IPv6 hosts can automatically configure their interface addresses without the need for manual configuration or a DHCP server.

Here are a few reasons why converting a MAC address to an IPv6 address interface identifier is done:

• Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC): In IPv6, SLAAC is a mechanism that allows hosts to configure their IPv6 addresses automatically. The last 64 bits of an IPv6 address (known as the interface identifier) are often derived from the MAC address to ensure uniqueness within a local network.
• Uniqueness: The 48-bit MAC address space is designed to be globally unique. By incorporating part of the MAC address into the IPv6 address, it helps ensure the uniqueness of the generated IPv6 address, reducing the likelihood of address conflicts.
• Efficient Address Assignment: By using part of the MAC address, devices can autonomously generate their IPv6 addresses without relying on a central authority or DHCP server. This is particularly useful in scenarios where devices need to quickly and efficiently obtain IP addresses.