What is the default subnet mask for a Class C IP address?

What is the default subnet mask for a Class C IP address?

• A. 255.255.255.0
• B. 255.255.0.0
• C. 255.0.0.0
• D. 255.255.255.255

Answer: (A)

The default subnet mask for a Class C IP address is 255.255.255.0. Class C IP addresses are designated for smaller networks, typically used in scenarios where the number of hosts is limited. The subnet mask of 255.255.255.0 allows for up to 256 IP addresses (0 to 255), with 254 usable host addresses (as the first address is reserved for the network and the last for the broadcast). This subnet mask outlines that the first three octets of the IP address identify the network portion, and the last octet is used for host addresses within that network. This structure supports the typical use of Class C addresses in smaller organizational settings like local area networks (LANs). On the other hand, the other subnet masks listed do not correspond to Class C addressing. The mask of 255.255.0.0 pertains to Class B, providing a larger host range. The mask of 255.0.0.0 is associated with Class A, designed for very large networks. Lastly, 255.255.255.255 is a special broadcast address rather than a standard subnet mask, which further reinforces that 255.255.255.0 is indeed the correct default subnet

The default subnet mask for a Class C IP address is 255.255.255.0. Class C IP addresses are designated for smaller networks, typically used in scenarios where the number of hosts is limited. The subnet mask of 255.255.255.0 allows for up to 256 IP addresses (0 to 255), with 254 usable host addresses (as the first address is reserved for the network and the last for the broadcast).

This subnet mask outlines that the first three octets of the IP address identify the network portion, and the last octet is used for host addresses within that network. This structure supports the typical use of Class C addresses in smaller organizational settings like local area networks (LANs).

On the other hand, the other subnet masks listed do not correspond to Class C addressing. The mask of 255.255.0.0 pertains to Class B, providing a larger host range. The mask of 255.0.0.0 is associated with Class A, designed for very large networks. Lastly, 255.255.255.255 is a special broadcast address rather than a standard subnet mask, which further reinforces that 255.255.255.0 is indeed the correct default subnet