Which feature allows different subnet masks for various subnets?

The feature that allows for different subnet masks for various subnets is Variable Length Subnet Masking (VLSM). VLSM permits the segmentation of a network into subnets of differing sizes, enhancing the efficient use of IP addresses. By using VLSM, network administrators can allocate address space more flexibly, depending on the number of hosts required in each subnet.

For instance, if one subnet requires 50 IP addresses and another requires only 10, VLSM allows you to use a larger subnet mask for the former and a smaller one for the latter. This adaptability helps to optimize IP address usage and reduce waste, which is particularly beneficial in an environment with a limited number of available IP addresses.

Other options do not offer this flexibility in subnetting. Subnetting refers to the general practice of dividing a single network into smaller sub-networks but does not specify the use of variable length masks. Static routing deals with predetermined paths for data transmission without addressing subnet mask variations. Route aggregation focuses on summarizing multiple routes into a single route, simplifying routing tables rather than altering subnet mask configurations.