Question

    Given the IP address block 192.168.0.0/24, how many subnets can be created by borrowing 2 bits from the host portion, and what will be the new subnet mask? 

    A 2 subnets, 255.255.255.128 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B 4 subnets, 255.255.255.192 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C 6 subnets, 255.255.255.224 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D 8 subnets, 255.255.255.240 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E 16 subnets, 255.255.255.248 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    Borrowing 2 bits from the host portion of the IP address increases the number of subnet bits from 24 to 26 (since the original mask is /24). With 2 bits for subnets, 22=42^2 = 422=4 subnets can be created. The new subnet mask will be 255.255.255.192 (or /26), which leaves 6 bits for the host portion, allowing 64 addresses per subnet (with 62 usable addresses). Why Other Options are Incorrect: A) 2 subnets, 255.255.255.128: Borrowing only 1 bit from the host portion would create 2 subnets, but the question specifies borrowing 2 bits. C) 6 subnets, 255.255.255.224: This option provides an incorrect number of subnets based on the number of bits borrowed. D) 8 subnets, 255.255.255.240: Borrowing 3 bits would yield 8 subnets, not 4. E) 16 subnets, 255.255.255.248: Borrowing 4 bits would create 16 subnets, which is beyond the scope of this question.

    Practice Next

    Relevant for Exams: