What does the conversion of a MAC address to EUI-64 primarily enable?

The conversion of a MAC address to EUI-64 primarily enables the creation of unique IPv6 addresses. EUI-64 uses the 48-bit MAC address as a basis to generate a 64-bit interface identifier, which is part of the IPv6 addressing scheme. This process ensures that devices can self-configure their IPv6 addresses on a network, facilitating interoperability and eliminating address conflicts, as each generated address is expected to be unique based on the uniqueness of the MAC address.

The EUI-64 format extends the MAC address by inserting specific bits that assist in distinguishing the address's various components, making it compliant with the requirements of IPv6. This capability is essential for seamless address assignment in IPv6 networks, allowing devices to connect without manual configuration or the risk of address duplication.