What is Subnetting?
Subnetting involves the logical division of an IP network into smaller subnetworks. Devices within a subnet can communicate directly, while communication between different subnets relies on routers to facilitate the connection.
Purposes of Subnetting
1. Division of IP Addresses
The main purpose of subnetting is to split the IP address into its network address and host address.
By using the subnet mask approach, the split address can be divided further into units, each of which can be assigned to different network devices.
2. Efficiency of the Network
Subnetting makes it possible for network traffic to quickly travel short distances to its destination without being interrupted by unnecessary routers or diversions.
3. Network Security
Subnetting helps the network managers in reducing network-wide risks.
This is made possible by removing or isolating vulnerable network regions, thereby making it difficult for intruders to move through a company’s network.
4. Reduction of Network Traffic
If your organization has a huge amount of traffic that needs to be shared routinely among multiple devices, using subnetting will be beneficial.
Through subnetting, you will be able to minimize network traffic by putting all the devices on the same subnet.
Without subnetting, all the devices and servers on the network will be able to see every data pack, leading to increased network traffic.
5. Improvement in Network Speed
Subnetting speeds up the network by reducing the need for network traffic to take unnecessary routes.
This is made possible by dividing the main network into smaller, linked networks. These are less busy.
6. Relocation of Internet Protocol Addressing
On every network, there are a limited number of places where devices can connect. For instance, if there are more than 254 devices, a network space known as Class B will have to be allocated.
By dividing the larger network into subnets, it becomes possible to use one address space for multiple physical networks. If 150 devices need to be divided into three different physical networks and three different cities, then more address blocks will be needed for each network. The alternative approach is subnetting.
Advantages of Subnetting
The advantages of subnetting in network administration are:
- It helps in reducing the presence of Internet Protocol (IP) range.
- Subnetting helps increase the performance of the entire network by getting rid of repeated traffic and errors caused due to it.
- Subnetting enables hosts to have control over user permissions for specific information, ensuring security. This is made possible because subnetting ensures that the entire network is not accessible to devices or gadgets. For example, the code of the developer must not be accessed by any other departments of the organization.
- Subnetting makes it easier to set network priorities based on the department’s requirements. For instance, the sales department needs more network access to host video conferences and webcasts. It ensures the operational efficiency of the organization’s departments.
- It is easier to maintain smaller networks.