How long is an IPv6 address?

An IPv6 address is 128 bits in length, which means it is composed of 128 binary digits. This extended length allows for a vastly larger address space compared to IPv4, accommodating the growing number of devices connected to the internet. Specifically, 128 bits can yield a total of 340 undecillion unique addresses, which is essential for supporting the increasing number of devices and services that require a unique IP address.

This structure is integral to the design of IPv6, providing improved routing and network management features, while also allowing for easier configuration of addresses, especially with the implementation of auto-configuration features. This long bit length is what distinguishes it from other addressing schemes like IPv4, which has a length of only 32 bits.