IP Class Basics

Subnetting Basics

Subnetting is a method of dividing large networks into smaller more manageable networks for the following reasons; 

1. Efficient Address Management:

   • In a large network, having all devices on a single flat network can be cumbersome.

   • Subnetting allows you to group devices based on their functionality, location, or other criteria.

   • Each subnet has its own range of IP addresses, making address management more efficient.

2. Reduced Broadcast Traffic:

   • Broadcast messages (such as ARP requests) are sent to all devices within a network.

   • Subnetting limits the broadcast domain to a smaller group of devices.

   • Smaller broadcast domains reduce unnecessary network traffic and improve performance.

3. Improved Security:

   • Subnets act as security boundaries.

   • Devices within the same subnet can communicate directly, but communication across subnets requires routing.

   • This isolation enhances security by preventing unauthorized access between subnets.

4. Optimized Routing:

   • Routers route traffic between subnets.

   • Subnetting allows routers to make more informed decisions about forwarding data.

   • Efficient routing ensures that data takes the shortest path to its destination.

5. IP Address Conservation:

   • Subnetting allows better utilization of IP addresses.

   • Instead of allocating a large address block to a single network, you can allocate smaller blocks to multiple subnets.

   • This prevents wastage of IP addresses.

6. Scalability:

   • As networks grow, subnetting facilitates scalability.

   • New subnets can be added without disrupting existing network segments.

   • Scalability is crucial for accommodating additional devices and users.

Subnetting in Practice