Explain how Variable Length Subnet Masking (VLSM) can help plan the supplied `236.17.8.0/24` address space for networks with different host requirements.

### Why this is right The supplied plan has networks with different sizes, including a Cambridge wired workstation network with 54 hosts and several networks with only a few hosts. VLSM addresses that mismatch by using subnet masks that create differently sized blocks, rather than treating every network as if it had the same requirement. ### The concept The `/24` identifies the starting address space for the design. VLSM divides that space into subnet blocks using different prefix lengths. Larger requirements need larger blocks; smaller requirements can use smaller blocks. The designer must ensure every allocation fits inside the assigned range and must avoid overlapping allocations. The material describes conserving address space and easing administration as benefits, and says VLSM can help with route summarization. It does not provide a completed allocation table, so exact subnet assignments should not be assumed. ### What a good answer covers - Different subnet masks produce different network sizes. - Each block should be selected to suit its network's host requirement. - All blocks must fit inside `236.17.8.0/24` without overlap. - The approach can conserve addresses and support orderly administration. ### Terms - **VLSM**: Variable Length Subnet Masking. A method that uses different subnet masks in one address plan. - **IP**: Internet Protocol. The protocol whose addresses are divided into network and host portions. ### Remember Match each subnet's block size to its needs, then verify that all blocks fit the assigned range.