AARP PROBE PACKETS Meaning and
Definition
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AARP probe packets refer to the type of network traffic used in the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) to determine whether an IP address is already in use on a local area network (LAN) or not. ARP is a widely used protocol used for translating an IP address to a corresponding physical MAC address within a network.
AARP probe packets are specifically designed to discover any potential conflicts between IP addresses that might occur if multiple devices use the same address simultaneously. These packets are usually sent by a device that is about to assign or use a particular IP address, commonly by a DHCP server.
When an AARP probe packet is sent, it includes the IP address that is being checked in the packet header. The packet is then broadcasted to the entire LAN, allowing all devices within the network to examine it. If any device already has the same IP address, it responds with an ARP reply packet, indicating that the IP address is already in use. This response notifies the sender that the address is unavailable and prompts it to choose a different one.
AARP probe packets play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of IP address management within a network. By employing these packets, potential IP address conflicts can be identified and resolved before they cause any disruptions or connectivity issues for devices within the LAN.
