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What do the numbers in a subnet mask mean?
A subnet mask is a number that defines a range of IP addresses that can be used in a network. (It is not something you wear on your head to keep subnets out.) A common subnet mask for a Class C IP address is 255.255. 255.0. Each section of the subnet mask can contain a number from 0 to 255, just like an IP address.
How does subnet mask work?
A subnet mask is used to divide an IP address into two parts. One part identifies the host (computer), the other part identifies the network to which it belongs. To better understand how IP addresses and subnet masks work, look at an IP address and see how it’s organized.
What is the custom subnet mask?
The custom subnet mask, also called a variable length subnet mask, is used to identify the bits used for a network address versus the bits used for a host address. ■ Custom subnet masks are used when subnetting or supernetting.
How do you find your custom subnet mask?
How to Find Your Subnet Mask Method 1 of 4: Windows Instructions. Open Command Prompt. Method 2 of 4: Mac Instructions. Click on the “System Preferences” icon on your dock. Method 3 of 4: Linux Instructions. Open a command line. Method 4 of 4: Setting Up a TV or Other Device. Use the same subnet mark as a computer.
What is the difference between a subnet and a subnet mask?
A subnet is a range of addresses which are valid hosts on the same network. Subnet and network range are synonyms. A subnet mask is an obsolete term for “network mask”. “subnet” no longer exists. It is a leftover from classful days. “network” can be used in place of “subnet” for almost all uses (if not all).
What are the functions of subnet mask?
The function of a subnet mask is to extract the network ID portion of an IP destination address and determine whether an IP address exists on the local network or whether it must be routed outside the local network. If the extracted network ID matches the local network ID, the destination is located on the local network.
Is a subnet mask the same as netmask?
The “Netmask”, “subnet mask”, or simply “mask” are all the same thing: A mask that tells software which IPs belong to that network an which don’t.