The process of dividing an IP network into smaller networks is known as:

• A. Subnet
• B. Subnet Mask
• C. Subnetting
• D. Star Topology

Answer: (C)

Dividing an IP network into smaller networks is called subnetting. This process uses a subnet mask (or CIDR prefix) to define how much of an IP address is the network portion versus the host portion. By applying the mask, you carve a larger block into several logical subnets, each with its own network address and range of host addresses. This arrangement improves address efficiency, limits broadcast domains, and supports security boundaries and easier routing between segments. The term subnet refers to one of the smaller networks created. A subnet mask is the bit pattern that separates network and host bits. Star topology is a physical layout concept and does not describe dividing address space.