Overview
6LoWPAN is a standard that allows the IPv6 protocol to be used over low-power, low-bandwidth wireless networks (like IEEE 802.15.4). It 'squeezes' IPv6 packets so they can fit into the small frames used by these networks.
How it Works
- Header Compression: Reduces the size of the IPv6 header by removing redundant information.
- Fragmentation and Reassembly: Breaks large IPv6 packets into smaller pieces that fit into 802.15.4 frames.
- Layer 2 Forwarding: Allows packets to be routed across a mesh network.
Importance
6LoWPAN enables every tiny IoT device to have its own unique IPv6 address, allowing them to be part of the global internet without needing complex gateways.