The default subnet mask for a Class C address is?

The default subnet mask for a Class C address is?

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

Answer: (B)

The default subnet mask for a Class C address is 255.255.255.0. This subnet mask divides the IP address into a network part and a host part. In a Class C address, the first three octets (255.255.255) are designated for the network, while the last octet (0) accommodates the host addresses within that network. Class C addresses are typically used for small to medium-sized networks, allowing up to 256 total addresses (0-255) within each subnet. However, two addresses in each subnet (the network address and the broadcast address) cannot be assigned to hosts, leaving 254 usable host addresses. The remaining options represent subnet masks associated with other classes of IP addresses. Class A uses a default subnet mask of 255.0.0.0, which allows for large networks with many hosts. Class B employs a mask of 255.255.0.0, providing a balance between host addresses and network size. The option of 255.255.255.255 is a special address used for limited broadcasts and is not a valid default subnet mask.

The default subnet mask for a Class C address is 255.255.255.0. This subnet mask divides the IP address into a network part and a host part. In a Class C address, the first three octets (255.255.255) are designated for the network, while the last octet (0) accommodates the host addresses within that network.

Class C addresses are typically used for small to medium-sized networks, allowing up to 256 total addresses (0-255) within each subnet. However, two addresses in each subnet (the network address and the broadcast address) cannot be assigned to hosts, leaving 254 usable host addresses.

The remaining options represent subnet masks associated with other classes of IP addresses. Class A uses a default subnet mask of 255.0.0.0, which allows for large networks with many hosts. Class B employs a mask of 255.255.0.0, providing a balance between host addresses and network size. The option of 255.255.255.255 is a special address used for limited broadcasts and is not a valid default subnet mask.