What is the multicast IP range reserved for network protocols by IANA?

The multicast IP range reserved for network protocols by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) is from 224.0.0.0 to 224.0.0.255. This specific range is known as the "well-known multicast addresses" and is used for network protocols and system-level communications. These addresses are globally scoped multicast addresses that are typically employed by routing protocols and other essential network services, allowing devices within a local network to communicate efficiently without direct addressing.

The significance of the chosen range lies in its defined purpose for core network functions, such as routing protocol communications, which ensures that devices on the same local network can subscribe to common multicast groups for updates or notifications. This structured use of multicast addressing is fundamental to maintaining organized traffic in large-scale networks.

The other ranges mentioned do not pertain specifically to the well-known multicast addresses reserved for network protocols as defined by IANA. Thus, the option highlighting the 224.0.0.0 to 224.0.0.255 range effectively represents the authoritative standards established for multicast IP addressing in networking.