4.2. "::" Usage

4.2. "::" Usage

4.2.1. Shorten as Much as Possible

The use of the symbol "::" MUST be used to its maximum capability. For example, 2001:db8:0:0:0:0:2:1 must be shortened to 2001:db8::2:1. Likewise, 2001:db8::0:1 is not acceptable, because the symbol "::" could have been used to produce a shorter representation 2001:db8::1.

4.2.2. Handling One 16-Bit 0 Field

The symbol "::" MUST NOT be used to shorten just one 16-bit 0 field. For example, the representation 2001:db8:0:1:1:1:1:1 is correct, but 2001:db8::1:1:1:1:1 is not correct.

4.2.3. Choice in Placement of "::"

When there is an alternative choice in the placement of a "::", the longest run of consecutive 16-bit 0 fields MUST be shortened (i.e., the sequence with three consecutive zero fields is shortened in 2001:0:0:1:0:0:0:1). When the length of the consecutive 16-bit 0 fields are equal (i.e., 2001:db8:0:0:1:0:0:1), the first sequence of zero bits MUST be shortened. For example, 2001:db8::1:0:0:1 is correct representation.