What is IP address 239.255.255.250 on my network?

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Level 1

95 points

What is IP address 239.255.255.250 on my network?

When I run IP Scanner to get information about devices on my network it shows the address 239.255.255.250, which isn't a device at all, and IP Scanner tells me there's "no information available". I've searched the community (and others) and have only so far gleaned that it's something to so with SSDP (simple service delivery protocol). I don't know how it got on my network and whether it's necessary or even potentially damaging. And if it's not necessary, how do I get rid of it from the network? There are some very old posts about this, but none helpful or informed, sadly.

iMac, macOS Sierra (10.12.2), Magic Mouse

Posted on Feb 1, 2017 4:59 AM

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Answer 1

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BDAqua

Level 10

238,667 points

Feb 1, 2017 3:28 PM in response to Big McAl

Addresses starting with a number between 224 and 239 are used for IP multicast. IP multicast is a technology for efficiently sending the same content to multiple destinations. It is commonly used for distributing financial information and video streams, among other things.

http://network-tools.com/default.asp?prog=express&host=239.255.255.250

So, what all services do you have enabled?

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Answer 2

Big McAl Author

Level 1

95 points

Feb 1, 2017 3:36 PM in response to BDAqua

Thanks for the explanation. I think the only services on my network that fit the bill are a Nest thermostat and a Blink security camera system, both registered to web-based accounts. Could these be the reason? Possibly Sonos also, but I don't think that qualifies as a service.

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Answer 3

BDAqua

Level 10

238,667 points

Feb 1, 2017 3:56 PM in response to Big McAl

Yeah,
I think you've nailed it & are OK. 🙂

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Answer 4

Big McAl Author

Level 1

95 points

Feb 2, 2017 8:19 AM in response to BDAqua

Many thanks – much appreciated.

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