In simpler words, the subnet is a collection of network devices connected together to allow IP networks to be subdivided. If this is implemented correctly, the security and performance of the networks will be enhanced drastically. Basically most network designers will utilized this concept as an alternative for partition networks which are used in logical parts to boost greater convenience for administration work. In the IP networking, the devices used will share a common array of IP addresses.
Now take a look on what is a sub-network mask? The mask is a distinctive 32-bit or four bytes address that is used jointly along with an IP address to divide and handle the traffic. In other words, it is often used to organize the transmissions to a specific device. It is responsible to define the boundaries for the IP address. The corresponding match between the collections of IP address numbers with the masks can be defined using simple mathematical logarithms.
There is also something called the calculator specially designed for such purposes and often used by IT professionals to distinguish the IP addresses and the masks. The subnet, although similar to an IP address, does not exist individually or function the way the IP address does. To conclude it in a simpler way, the mask is the consequent companion for the IP address.
The mask involved in the sub-network will function accordingly to provide accurate results. You will have to apply the masks onto the IP addresses to split the addresses into two segments. Then the segments will be the extended addresses besides being used as the host addresses. To ensure that the addresses are valid, the right most bit must be a zero while the left most bit should be a one - compulsorily in a binary format. The right side represents the host part while the left side of the masks will represent the section of extended network.
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