Subnet for 254 hosts
A network that needs 254 hosts fits in a /24, mask 255.255.255.0, with 254 usable addresses.
A network built for exactly 254 hosts fits a /24 with no waste. The mask is 255.255.255.0, and all 254 of its usable addresses are spoken for.
Go one prefix smaller, to a /25, and the block only holds 126 usable addresses, not enough room for 254 hosts. A /24 is the smallest standard block that fits.
Enter any address below to see the exact network, broadcast, and host range for a /24 block.
Calculate a /24 network
Accepts CIDR (192.0.2.0/24), IP + mask (192.0.2.0 255.255.255.0), or a bare IP (defaults to /24).
11000000.00000000.00000010.0000000011111111.11111111.11111111.00000000Example: 192.0.2.0/24
Taking 192.0.2.0/24 as a worked example, a /24 block breaks down like this:
| Network address | 192.0.2.0 |
|---|---|
| Usable range | 192.0.2.1 - 192.0.2.254 |
| Broadcast address | 192.0.2.255 |
| Total addresses | 256 |
| Usable hosts | 254 |
Frequently asked questions
What subnet mask do I need for 254 hosts?
A network with 254 hosts fits in a /24, which uses the mask 255.255.255.0 and provides 254 usable addresses.
How many addresses does a /24 block have in total?
A /24 has 256 total addresses, 254 of them usable (the total minus the network and broadcast addresses, except for /31 and /32).
Is there a smaller subnet that still fits 254 hosts?
No. A /24 has exactly 254 usable addresses, which makes it the smallest standard block that fits 254 hosts without going over.
How do I work this out myself?
Find the smallest power of two, minus two, that is at least 254. That takes 8 host bits, which leaves a /24 prefix. See how to calculate a subnet mask for the full method.