Board logo

subject: Basic Information You Need to Know About Subnet Mask [print this page]


Basic Information You Need to Know About Subnet Mask

Subnet mask is a sub-component of a network mask, which is intended to fully utilize the concept of subnetting. What it basically does is to help in identifying the existence of a particular IP or Internet Protocol address whenever it is determined online. Within the subnet mask itself are two underlying components that play a crucial role in this identification process: 1) the host address, and 2) the network address.

The subnet mask is written in the same way as an IP address is, which is composed of dotted decimal notation. The binary representation 11111111 11111111 11111111 0000 is the most commonly used binary mask on the internet. However, it is representation using a different combination, which is 255.255.255.0 to make it easier to read. There are also other information included on bits reserved to identify the address of the host computer in the network along with the IP address.

What are the applications for the subnet mask? There are some tricks on how to use the subnet effectively, which includes the assignation of rightmost bits with zero. On the other end of the spectrum, the leftmost bit must be assigned with a value of one such that it is relatively easy to remember. The representation of the subnet mask is divided into two wherein each side represents something different. The left side refers to the extended network portion, while the one on the right is the host portion.

Why is it so important to use subnet mask for the IP Network? This is a common question asked by newcomers to the concept of internet protocols and networks. The main purpose for this is to establish connection from a given connection source to a computer network. This is important since the host will try to evaluate whether the connection is coming from a local subnet or from a remote network.

If in case the host computer is connected to a remote network, then all packets must be directed to a routing table. Meanwhile, if the connection is coming from a local subnet mask, then the hardware address of the system must be obtained. During instances wherein the hardware address is difficult to find, then the address for the Media Access Control is searched for and is found on layer two of the Open Systems Interconnection Model.

What are other things there are to know about a subnet mask? Basically, it is a vital component for subnetting or else it will be difficult for the host network and its portions to find the main computer network. However, there are more applications that can be used for a subnet mask such as the identification of a device in a specific network's IP address. This will help to reduce the amount of traffic coming into a network.

These are just a few of the things that make subnetting useful and cover the basic areas of building a wireless network, while there are more complex applications that make handling a network that much easier. However, you can use this information available on subnet mask to ensure that you can learn how to use the network efficiently.




welcome to loan (http://www.yloan.com/) Powered by Discuz! 5.5.0