What Is a /24 Subnet?
A /24 subnet uses the mask 255.255.255.0 — 24 network bits and 8 host bits, giving 256 total addresses and 254 usable hosts. It is the most common subnet size in home and small-office networks.
Why /24 is so common
A /24 maps neatly to one full "third octet" network — like 192.168.1.0/24 — and 254 hosts fits most LANs. It is the default many routers hand out.
The numbers
256 total addresses, minus the network (.0) and broadcast (.255) = 254 usable. Host range .1–.254. Wildcard mask 0.0.0.255.
Frequently asked questions
What is a /24 subnet mask?
A /24 is 255.255.255.0. It provides 256 total addresses and 254 usable hosts.
How many devices can a /24 support?
254 usable host addresses.
What is an example of a /24 network?
192.168.1.0/24 — hosts 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.1.254, broadcast 192.168.1.255.
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