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Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) : Purpose Functionality ARP Request

Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) maps IP addresses to MAC addresses, enabling communication between devices on a local network. It works through ARP requests and replies, allowing devices to discover each other's physical addresses. ARP also utilizes caching to improve efficiency, but it only operates within a single network segment.

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18 views1 page

Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) : Purpose Functionality ARP Request

Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) maps IP addresses to MAC addresses, enabling communication between devices on a local network. It works through ARP requests and replies, allowing devices to discover each other's physical addresses. ARP also utilizes caching to improve efficiency, but it only operates within a single network segment.

Uploaded by

tech4fresherss
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as ODT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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ARP, which stands for Address Resolution Protocol, is a critical function within the network

communications process. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)


• Purpose: ARP maps an IP address to a machine's physical (MAC) address on a local
network. This is essential for enabling devices to communicate over a network.
• Functionality:
1. ARP Request: When a device wants to communicate with another device on the
same local network, it sends out an ARP request. This request includes the IP address
of the target device and asks, "Who has this IP address? Please send me your MAC
address."
2. ARP Reply: The device with the matching IP address responds with an ARP reply,
containing its MAC address. Now, the original device can send data packets directly
to the target device using its MAC address.
• Caching: To enhance efficiency, devices store the IP-to-MAC address mappings they
discover in an ARP cache. This cache reduces the number of ARP requests needed.
• Scope: ARP operates within a single network segment, meaning it can't resolve addresses for
devices outside the local network.

Visual Summary
Imagine ARP as a network detective:
• When Device A wants to speak to Device B, it shouts out to the network, "Hey, does anyone
know Device B's address?"
• Device B hears the call and responds, "Yes, it's me! Here's my address."
• Device A then records this information for future conversations, making everything
smoother and faster.

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