Final answer:
IPv6 interfaces automatically join FF02::1, the all-nodes multicast group, and FF02::2, the all-routers multicast group, for local link communications.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an interface is configured with an IPv6 address, it automatically joins certain multicast groups. The two multicast groups that are always joined are FF02::1 and FF02::2.
Explanation of multicast groups:
- FF02::1 - This is the all-nodes multicast group. Every IPv6-enabled device joins this group, and it is similar to the IPv4 broadcast address.
- FF02::2 - This group is known as the all-routers multicast group. All IPv6 routers will join this group and it is used for router solicitation and advertisement.
Joining these multicast groups allows an IPv6 device to participate in network activities such as neighbor discovery and other essential communications at the local link level.
Learn more about IPv6 multicast groups