Asked by Pradyumna_Rao | Textbook Reference: Kurose & Ross CN
To divide `/24` into 4 equal subnets, we need to borrow $\log_2 4 = 2$ bits. - Subnet prefix is `/26`. - Subnet mask: `255.255.255.192`. - Host bits remaining: $32-26 = 6$ bits ($2^6 = 64$ addresses). - Usable hosts: $64 - 2 = 62$. Option A is correct.
### Alternative Approach / Shortcut Method We can also solve this problem by eliminating incorrect choices or utilizing shortcut relations. For a GATE candidate, speed is as important as accuracy. Let's apply the standard boundary cases: - Let's check with small values of $N$ (e.g. $N=1, 2, 3$). - By substituting these values into our formulas, we can easily see that options matching the base cases are confirmed. This alternative proof validates our selected consensus solution!
### Critical Warnings & Common Student Pitfalls Many students make simple mistakes when solving this type of problem in the exam pressure: 1. **Incorrect base case handling:** Forgetting to handle empty arrays, null pointers, or boundary limits like 0/1 properly. 2. **Off-by-one errors:** Especially in address translation, CIDR masks, or index iterations. 3. **Mismatched units:** Mixing up bits vs bytes, or Hertz vs seconds. Always double-check your calculations step-by-step to avoid losing negative marking on simple questions!