Definition
Automatic private IP addressing (APIPA) is a feature on Microsoft Windows that allows the computer to communicate with other devices assigned with APIPA addresses on the same local network.
How APIPA Works
If a computer is set up to use DHCP for its IP address but the DHCP server is inaccessible, APIPA assigns an IP address within the range of 169.254.0.1 to 169.254.255.254. This ensures the computer can still connect with other devices on the network.
APIPA Benefits
- Convenient: APIPA supports automatic configuration, so setting it up is straightforward.
- Network continuity: APIPA ensures that devices on the same LAN can still communicate even in the event of DHCP server downtime.
- No third-party apps: It doesn’t require downloading third-party applications since it comes pre-installed in Windows.
APIPA Drawbacks
- Local network only: Devices running on APIPA addresses are limited to the LAN and cannot access the Internet.
- Limited utility: APIPA doesn’t assign a default gateway, thus limiting LAN communications.
- No DNS server management: Devices with APIPA addresses don’t get DNS server information, which impacts the name resolution processes.