ip addressing and subnetting
Every device connected to a network has a unique IP address, just like a dorm room on a university campus has its room number. This specific and precise addressing makes sure that data arrives at the correct destination, just like how mail always reaches your specific dorm room.
A subnet it just one part of a whole network
But campuses can be very large and complex, making it essential to break them down into smaller, more manageable areas this is what is called subnetting. Think about how your university is structured. You have dorm buildings, academic halls, athletic facilities, and dining areas, each with specific access rules and different security measures. Similarly, subnetting divides a large network into smaller parts, and each part has its own security controls to prevent unauthorized access.
If someone unauthorized manages to get access to one building on campus, the security measures for the independent subnet prevent them from freely entering others. Good subnetting achieves a similar goal digitally—it restricts an intruder to just one small section of the network, significantly reducing potential damage. Cybersecurity experts use subnetting to strategically limit how far an attacker can move, safeguarding critical information and resources.