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You have a network 172.16.0.0/16 and need at least 500 subnets. Which subnet mask should you use?

hard📝 Application Q8 of 15
Computer Networks - IP Addressing
You have a network 172.16.0.0/16 and need at least 500 subnets. Which subnet mask should you use?
A255.255.254.0 (/23)
B255.255.255.0 (/24)
C255.255.255.128 (/25)
D255.255.240.0 (/20)
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
  1. Step 1: Calculate bits needed for 500 subnets

    500 subnets require at least 9 bits (2^9=512) for subnetting.
  2. Step 2: Determine new subnet mask

    Original mask /16 + 9 bits = /25 (255.255.255.128). /25 gives 512 subnets, enough for 500.
  3. Step 3: Check other masks

    /24 adds 8 bits, total 24 bits, which gives 2^(24-16)=256 subnets, less than 500.
  4. Step 4: Check /23 mask

    /23 adds 7 bits, 2^(23-16)=128 subnets, less than 500.
  5. Step 5: Check /20 mask

    /20 adds 4 bits, 2^(20-16)=16 subnets, less than 500.
  6. Final Answer:

    Use subnet mask 255.255.255.128 (/25) to get at least 500 subnets -> Option C
  7. Quick Check:

    500 subnets need /25 or smaller mask [OK]
Quick Trick: More subnets need more bits in subnet mask [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Confusing subnet bits with host bits
  • Choosing mask with fewer subnet bits
  • Miscounting bits needed for subnets

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