ACL vs. IP-Prefix: Stop Confusing Them! One Article to Fully Master the Difference!
Good evening, everyone!
Today, let’s talk about the differences between ACL and IP-Prefix (Address Prefix List). These two are extremely common in daily network configurations, but many people aren’t entirely clear on how they differ. Today, we’ll break down their distinctions in the simplest way possible!
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1.What are ACL and IP-Prefix?
ACL (Access Control List): Primarily used to match and filter data traffic. It enables granular control based on parameters like IP addresses, ports, protocols, etc.
IP-Prefix (Address Prefix List): Specifically designed to match routes. It allows more precise filtering of routing information for protocols like BGP, OSPF, and others.
In simple terms:ACL acts like a gatekeeper, deciding who gets in and who stays out.IP-Prefix functions like a navigator, determining which routing information can be propagated.
2. Main differences
Category | ACL | IP-Prefix |
Classification | Named ACL, Numbered ACL | |
By Rule Type | Basic ACL, Advanced ACL,Layer 2 ACL | |
Matching Criteria | Source/Destination IP, Port, Protocol, Time Range | IP Address, Prefix Length, Subnet Mask Range |
Matching Rules | IP + Wildcard Mask | Network Prefix + Subnet Mask Range |
Configuration Complexity | Complex (More Rules) | Simple (Fewer Rules) |
Default Step Value | 5 | 10 |
Purpose | Match Routes + Filter Packets | Only for Matching Routes |
Precision | Cannot Precisely Match Masks (Cumbersome) | Can Precisely Match Masks (More Flexible) |
Use Cases | blocking Telnet, QoS policies | filtering or propagating BGP/OSPF routes |
Origin | Evolved from basic packet-filtering needs | Developed to address precise route-matching requirements in complex networks |
3. Configuration Example
ACL Restricts Telnet Access
tips:This ACL rule only allows the IP address 10.1.1.1 to access the Telnet server!
BGP Route Filtering with IP-Prefix
Summary:
ACL is used for traffic control and packet filtering, making it ideal for scenarios like security enforcement and QoS management.
IP-Prefix is designed for route matching and plays a critical role in routing protocols such as BGP peering.
Final Thoughts:This article breaks down the differences in plain language. ACL vs. IP-Prefix—got it now? Let me know if you need further clarification!
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