Expand Documentation Address 2001:db8::1
Expand the IPv6 documentation address 2001:db8::1 to its full form. Learn about RFC 3849 and why 2001:db8::/32 is reserved for examples.
Special Addresses
Detailed Explanation
The Documentation Prefix 2001:db8::/32
The address 2001:db8::1 expands to:
2001:0db8:0000:0000:0000:0000:0000:0001
Why This Prefix Exists
RFC 3849 reserves the 2001:db8::/32 prefix exclusively for use in documentation, examples, and sample code. This ensures that:
- Example addresses never conflict with real addresses on the Internet
- Documentation code can be safely copied without accidentally connecting to unintended hosts
- Network diagrams and tutorials use a universally recognized non-routable prefix
Equivalent in IPv4
IPv4 has similar documentation ranges defined in RFC 5737:
| IPv4 Range | IPv6 Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 192.0.2.0/24 | 2001:db8::/32 |
| 198.51.100.0/24 | (same) |
| 203.0.113.0/24 | (same) |
Common Usage Patterns
2001:db8::1 # Simple example host
2001:db8:1::/48 # Example site prefix
2001:db8:abcd::1 # Example with readable prefix
2001:db8:cafe::/48 # Memorable example prefix
Routing Behavior
Addresses in 2001:db8::/32 should never appear in routing tables on the public Internet. If they do, it indicates a misconfiguration.
Use Case
Used in technical documentation, RFCs, tutorials, blog posts, training materials, and network diagrams. Any time you need to show an example IPv6 address in documentation, use the 2001:db8::/32 prefix to avoid accidentally referencing real addresses.