Dictionary · Networking Fundamentals
Subnetting
Addressing · Intermediate
Dividing a larger network prefix into smaller prefixes so different groups of hosts have their own broadcast domains and route entries.
You borrow host bits to create smaller networks. That separates departments, limits broadcast traffic, and lets a router control what may pass between them.
Example: 10.4.0.0/16 can be split into /24 networks such as 10.4.1.0/24 and 10.4.2.0/24.
Common misconception
- Creating a smaller prefix does not by itself encrypt or isolate traffic. A router or firewall policy still has to enforce separation.