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Classes and subnetting

The document outlines the five classes of IPv4 addresses (A, B, C, D, E) designed for different network sizes, detailing their ranges and purposes. It also explains subnetting, which involves dividing a network into smaller subnets using subnet masks and borrowing bits from the host part of an IP address. This understanding of classes and subnetting aids in effective network design and management.

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3 views

Classes and subnetting

The document outlines the five classes of IPv4 addresses (A, B, C, D, E) designed for different network sizes, detailing their ranges and purposes. It also explains subnetting, which involves dividing a network into smaller subnets using subnet masks and borrowing bits from the host part of an IP address. This understanding of classes and subnetting aids in effective network design and management.

Uploaded by

tech4fresherss
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as ODT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Classes in the Context of Network Layer

In the early days of IP addressing, IPv4 addresses were divided into five classes (A, B, C, D, E) to
accommodate different network sizes. These classes helped in organizing the allocation of IP
addresses. Here's a quick breakdown:
1. Class A
• Range: 1.0.0.0 to 126.255.255.255
• Default Subnet Mask: 255.0.0.0
• Purpose: Large networks with a huge number of hosts.
2. Class B
• Range: 128.0.0.0 to 191.255.255.255
• Default Subnet Mask: 255.255.0.0
• Purpose: Medium-sized networks.
3. Class C
• Range: 192.0.0.0 to 223.255.255.255
• Default Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
• Purpose: Small networks.
4. Class D
• Range: 224.0.0.0 to 239.255.255.255
• Purpose: Reserved for multicast groups.
5. Class E
• Range: 240.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255
• Purpose: Reserved for experimental use.

Subnetting
Subnetting is the process of dividing a network into smaller, more manageable sub-networks
(subnets). It helps in improving network performance, security, and management. Here's how it
works:
1. Subnet Mask
• A subnet mask is used to determine which portion of an IP address is the network
part and which is the host part. It consists of a series of 1s followed by a series of 0s
(e.g., 255.255.255.0).
2. Borrowing Bits
• To create subnets, you "borrow" bits from the host part of the IP address. For
example, if you have a Class C network (192.168.1.0/24), and you want 4 subnets,
you need to borrow 2 bits (since 22=4). This changes your subnet mask to
255.255.255.192 (/26).
3. Calculating Subnets
• With the new subnet mask, you can calculate the number of subnets and hosts per
subnet. For example, in a /26 subnet, you have 64 IP addresses, but only 62 usable (2
are reserved for network and broadcast addresses).

Putting It All Together


Understanding classes helps in recognizing the default network architecture, while subnetting
provides a way to efficiently utilize IP addresses within those networks. This combination enhances
network design and management.

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