What does NDP stand for in the context of IPv6?

In the context of IPv6, NDP stands for Neighbor Discovery Protocol. This protocol is crucial for the operation of IPv6 networks as it serves multiple important functions. NDP is responsible for discovering other nodes on the same local link, determining their link-layer addresses, finding routers, and maintaining reachability information about the various active neighbors.

Through processes like Router Solicitation and Router Advertisement, NDP enables hosts to automatically configure their IP addresses and discover other network devices. Additionally, NDP supports functions such as Duplicate Address Detection (DAD) to prevent address conflicts, which is vital for maintaining a stable and efficient network.

Understanding NDP is essential for managing IPv6 networks effectively, highlighting its significant role in ensuring seamless communication between devices on a network.