Use of Class A,B,C,D,E N/W | Make Computer Network Easy | Challenge-part-10

The use of IP address classes (Class A, B, C, D, and E) has evolved over time, and the traditional class-based system is less strictly followed in modern networking due to the widespread adoption of Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR). However, I can provide some general insights into the historical and intended uses of each class:

Class A (1.0.0.0 to 126.0.0.0):

Use Case: Designed for large networks.
Typical Usage: Given to large organizations or entities requiring a massive number of host addresses. Examples include multinational corporations or universities.
Class B (128.0.0.0 to 191.255.0.0):

Use Case: Suitable for medium-sized networks.
Typical Usage: Assigned to organizations that need a moderate number of host addresses. Used by many mid-sized companies, educational institutions, or regional Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
Class C (192.0.0.0 to 223.255.255.0):

Use Case: Designed for smaller networks.
Typical Usage: Allocated to smaller organizations or networks that require fewer host addresses. Commonly used by small businesses or home networks.
Class D (224.0.0.0 to 239.255.255.255):

Use Case: Reserved for multicast groups.
Typical Usage: Multicast addresses for one-to-many communication. Not typically used for unicast (point-to-point) communication.
Class E (240.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255):

Use Case: Reserved for experimental and research purposes.
Typical Usage: Not intended for general use. Reserved for experimental or research networks.
It’s crucial to note that the concept of IP address classes is becoming less relevant due to the implementation of CIDR, where the length of the network prefix is variable and not strictly tied to specific classes. CIDR allows for more efficient use of IP addresses and better scalability in the allocation of address space. As IPv4 addresses have become scarce, there’s a greater emphasis on using CIDR and adopting IPv6 for continued growth on the Internet.

source

ipv6