CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

In a Class C IP address, 24 bits are allocated for the network portion. Class C addresses are structured with the first three octets (24 bits) representing the network, while the last octet (8 bits) is used for host addresses within that network. This design allows for a total of 256 possible addresses (including network and broadcast addresses) in the Class C network.

The allocation of 24 bits for the network portion reflects the intent of Class C addresses, which are typically used for smaller networks, accommodating up to 254 usable host addresses (since one address is reserved for the network itself and another for the broadcast). Understanding this structure helps in effective network planning and management, particularly in environments where there are a limited number of devices.