Which type of IPv6 address is used for local network communication and begins with FE80?

The type of IPv6 address that begins with FE80 is known as a link-local address. These addresses are specifically designed for communication within a single local network segment and are not routable on the internet. Link-local addresses are automatically configured on all IPv6-enabled devices, allowing them to communicate with other devices on the same local network without requiring a manual configuration or a DHCP server.

Link-local addresses are used for various purposes, including neighbor discovery and other local network operations. They significantly facilitate the management of network devices, especially in environments where dynamic address assignment is needed, and they ensure that even devices without external connectivity can still communicate locally.

The other types of addresses listed do not start with FE80 and serve different purposes: private addresses are typically used in IPv4 (not IPv6), globally routed addresses refer to addresses that are reachable over the internet, and public addresses are externally routable on the internet rather than being confined to local network communication. This distinction is crucial for understanding how different types of IP addresses function within networks.