here are currently 254 devices connected to a hospital's network. An additional 30,000 to 65,000 devices will be added to the hospital's network during the next five years, but no more than 65,000 devices. What is the most appropriate IP address class for the hospital to accommodate its network growth?
To determine the most appropriate IP address class for the hospital's network growth, we need to consider the number of devices connected and the expected growth in the next five years.
Currently, there are 254 devices connected to the hospital's network. We can use this number to assess the IP address class.
- Class A network can accommodate up to 16,777,214 (2^24-2) devices.
- Class B network can accommodate up to 65,534 (2^16-2) devices.
- Class C network can accommodate up to 254 (2^8-2) devices.
Given that the hospital currently has 254 devices, a Class C network would be sufficient for its current needs. However, considering the projected growth of an additional 30,000 to 65,000 devices over the next five years, a Class C network would not be adequate.
Therefore, the most appropriate IP address class for the hospital to accommodate its network growth would be a Class B network. This IP address class can accommodate up to 65,534 devices, which falls within the range mentioned for the expected growth.