Subnetting 101

Subnetting 101 – Full Lab

Master IP subnetting through hands-on practice. Learn to calculate subnets, determine network ranges, and understand CIDR notation with real-world scenarios.

Overview

This interactive lab teaches you subnetting from the ground up. You'll work through progressively challenging subnetting problems, learning both the mathematical concepts and practical applications. Each step includes detailed explanations and verification of your answers.

Note: This lab focuses on IPv4 subnetting concepts that apply to real network administration, routing, and cloud networking.

What You’ll Learn

  • Convert between binary and decimal IP addresses
  • Calculate subnet masks and CIDR notation
  • Determine network, host, and broadcast addresses
  • Calculate the number of hosts per subnet
  • Design subnet schemes for real network scenarios
  • Understand VLSM (Variable Length Subnet Masking)
  • Troubleshoot common subnetting mistakes
  • Apply subnetting to cloud networking (AWS, Azure)

Requirements

  • Basic understanding of IP addresses
  • Paper and pencil (or calculator) for working through problems
  • No special software required

Time & Difficulty

  • Estimated time: 2–3 hours (comprehensive)
  • Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Prerequisites: Basic networking knowledge

Lab Structure (11 Steps)

  • Step 1: IP Address Fundamentals
  • Step 2: Subnet Masks
  • Step 3: CIDR Notation
  • Step 4: Network & Broadcast Addresses
  • Step 5: Calculating Host Ranges
  • Step 6: Practice: Basic Problems
  • Step 7: Practice: Intermediate Problems
  • Step 8: VLSM (Variable Length Subnet Masking)
  • Step 9: Supernetting & Route Summarization
  • Step 10: Real-World Network Design
  • Step 11: Quick Reference & Cheat Sheet
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Subnetting is a fundamental networking skill used daily by network engineers, system administrators, and cloud architects. This lab builds your confidence with clear, step-by-step instruction.