What does VLSM stand for?

The term VLSM stands for Variable Length Subnet Mask. This concept is essential in IP networking as it allows for the customization of subnet masks in different subnets within the same network. By using VLSM, network administrators can allocate IP addresses more efficiently, matching the size of the subnet to the number of required host addresses. This leads to better utilization of the available IP address space, especially in scenarios where different subnets may require varying sizes.

For instance, in a network with multiple subnets that need different numbers of hosts, VLSM enables the use of subnet masks of varying lengths to optimize address allocation. This flexibility is crucial in IPv4 addressing, where the limited number of available addresses can quickly be exhausted without effective management.

The other options do not represent established networking concepts, which reiterates why VLSM is the most relevant term in this context. Understanding VLSM is critical for designing scalable and efficient networks, allowing for better resource management within IP address assignments.