In the huge world of networking, IP subnetting is one of the most important skills for handling and organizing IP addresses effectively. If you want to learn about IP subnetting, you’ve probably heard of “16 subnets” and “24 subnets.” But what do these numbers really mean, and how do they change the way we set up our networks? Let’s figure out what’s going on and learn more about IP subnetting.
Before we go any further, let’s make sure we have a basic idea of IP addresses and subnetting. Every device linked to a network is given a unique number called an IP address, which is like a digital fingerprint. Each smaller part of a network, called a subnet, is easier to handle. This process is called subnetting. This division makes the network work better and makes management easy.
The subnet mask is made up of the numbers that are linked to subnets, like 16 and 24. The subnet mask is a two-bit code that tells the network part of an IP address from the host part. The most usual way to write a subnet mask is in CIDR notation, where the number after the slash (“/”) shows how many bits are used for the network part. So, when we say “16 subnets” or “24 subnets,” we’re talking about how many bits are in the part mask.
Let dive deep into this topic and break it down:-
16 Subnets
When we say “16 subnets,” we’re typically talking about a subnet mask length of 16 bits. This would be written as /16 in CIDR notation. If you use dotted-decimal, the subnet mask for /16 is 255.255.0.0. Because of this, a lot more subnets can be created than with a /24 subnet.
To see this, picture a network with IP addresses from 192.168.0.0 to 192.168.255.255. You can make 65,536 subnets in this range with a /16 subnet mask. A lot of devices can connect to each subnet, which makes them perfect for big networks.
24 Subnets
Alternatively, when we say “24 subnets,” we mean a subnet mask value of 24 bits, which is written as /24 in CIDR notation. You can use 255.255.255.0 as the subnet mask for /24. A /16 subnet gives you more freedom with IP address range, but this subnet limits them more.
The IP address range for this network is 192.168.0.0 to 192.168.0.255. You can make 256 subnets in this area with a /24 subnet mask. Even though each subnet has a smaller address space, /24 subnets work well for smaller networks or networks that have a clear organizational structure.
Choosing Between 16 and 24 Subnets:
How you decide whether to use 16 or 24 subnets relies on the needs of your network. 16 subnets give you a lot of address room, which may be useful for larger networks with lots of devices. There are, however, times when 24 subnets might be better for smaller networks with fewer devices that need to be better divided.
Based on the size and complexity of your network, it’s important to find the right mix between address space and segmentation. As you learn IP subnetting, keep in mind that it is a versatile tool that lets you change your network design to fit your company’s needs.
Conclusion
What’s the difference between 16 and 24 subnets? It’s the length of the subnet mask, which tells you how big and detailed your network parts are. To build and manage networks well, you need to understand the details of subnet masks and CIDR notation when you learn IP subnetting. Whether you choose the wide reach of 16 subnets or the more focused 24 subnets, it’s important to understand these ideas in order to find your way around the complicated world of network design. So, jump in, look around, and learn everything you can to make your network work better.