SUBNET MASKING
Subnet maskingin in computer networks is a method used to divide a large network into
smaller, more manageable subnetworks (subnets). It helps in organizing and securing a
network by assigning IP addresses to each device in a structured way.
A subnet maskis a 32-bit number that, when
combined with an IP address, separates the
address into two parts: the network portion and
the host portion.
Binary Representation :-
A subnet mask is usually written in dot-decimal notation, like an IP address
(e.g. 255.255.255.0).
The bits in the subnet mask are set to1for the network portion and0for the
host portion.
For example, for an IP address 192.168.1.10 with a subnet mask of
255.255.255.0, the first three octets (192.168.1 ) identify the network, and the
last octet (10) identifies the specific host on that network.
255.255.255.0 and it's binary equivalent is 11111111.11111111.11111111.00000000
-: Types of Subnet masks :-
1.Default Subnet Masks (Classful Subnetting)
Default subnet masks are based on the class of the IP address. Before Classless
Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR), networks were divided into predefined classes:
A, B, and C.
2.Custom Subnet Masks (CIDR Subnetting)
With Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR), subnet masks became flexible.
Instead of sticking to predefined subnet masks, you can now create custom
subnet masks to divide networks into smaller or larger subnets.
/24 (255.255.255.0): This subnet mask is common for Class C networks and allows for 256 total
IP addresses (254 usable for hosts).
/16 (255.255.0.0): Common for Class B networks, it allows for 65,536 total IP addresses (65,534
usable for hosts).
3.Variable Length Subnet Masks (VLSM)
VLSM allows for multiple subnet masks within the same network, providing greater
flexibility. You can use di erent subnet masks on di erent parts of the network based
on the specific needs of each subnet.
Importance of Subnet Masking :
Improved Performance
By breaking a large network into smaller subnets, the amount of broadcast tra c is reduced. Broadcast tra c
(messages sent to all devices in the network) can slow down the network. Subnetting helps contain broadcast tra c
within a smaller subnet, improving overall network performance.
Network Scalability
Subnet masks allow networks to grow or scale more easily. As organizations grow, they can subdivide existing
networks into smaller subnets without needing to redesign the entire network infrastructure.
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing) Notation :
CIDR notation is more concise method for designating the subnet mask. Which represents the mask as four values,
each representing the decimal value of an octet of the mask, the CIDR format represents the mask as a single value.
For example, in 192.168.1.0/24 :
The first24 bits represent the network(i.e.192.168.1), and the remaining 8 bits represent the hosts within that
network.
Advantages of CIDR
E cient use of IP addresses: CIDR allows for more e cient use of IP addresses, which is important as the pool of
available IPv4 addresses continues to shrink.
Flexibility: CIDR allows for more flexible allocation of IP addresses, which can be important for organizations with
complex network requirements.
Disadvantages of CIDR
Complexity: CIDR can be more complex to implement and manage than traditional class-based addressing, which can
require additional training and expertise.
Compatibility issues: Some older network devices may not be compatible with CIDR, which can make it di cult to
transition to a CIDR-based network.
-: Subnet Calculation :-
Step 1: Find the Subnet Number
Subtract the prefix number from /32: For example, for a /29 prefix, it’s 32 – 29 = 3.
Calculate the Subnet Mask: Convert the remaining bits to binary and sum them up to find the subnet mask.
Step 2: Determine the Subnet Size
Calculate the subnet size: Use the formula 2^n (where n is the number of host bits) to find how many addresses are
in each subnet.
Step 3: Identify the Broadcast Address
Subtract 1 from the subnet size: This gives you the broadcast address for the subnet.
Step 4: Locate the IP Address Subnet
Identify which subnet block the IP address falls into: This
determines the range of valid host addresses.
Step 5: Calculate Valid Hosts
Determine the number of valid hosts per subnet: Subtract 2
from the subnet size (for the network and broadcast
addresses).
Conclusion
In conclusion, IP Addressing and Subnet Masking is essential for effective network
management. By understanding these concepts, network professionals can optimize
performance, enhance security, and ensure reliable communication within networks.
