What is the smallest network mask that can support 200 connected devices?

To determine the smallest network mask that can support 200 connected devices, it is necessary to understand how network masks work in terms of host addresses.

A network mask defines how many bits are allocated for the network address and how many are reserved for host addresses. The total number of usable addresses on a subnet can be calculated as (2^h - 2), where (h) is the number of bits reserved for hosts. The subtraction of 2 accounts for the network address and the broadcast address, which cannot be assigned to hosts.

Starting with the network masks listed:

1. A mask of 255.255.255.128 (or /25) has 7 bits available for host addresses, allowing for (2^7 - 2 = 126) usable addresses, which is insufficient for 200 devices.

2. A mask of 255.255.255.0 (or /24) offers 8 bits for hosts, resulting in (2^8 - 2 = 254) usable addresses. This is adequate for 200 devices.

3. A mask of 255.255.254.0 (or /23) provides 9 bits for hosts, yielding (2^9 -