IPv4 classful addressing (legacy concept) Which IPv4 address class historically suited a very small number of networks with a very large number of hosts (nodes) per network?

Introduction / Context:
Before Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR), IPv4 used classful addressing with Classes A, B, and C to divide the address space. Each class traded off the number of available networks against the number of hosts per network. Understanding the legacy model helps interpret older documentation and exam questions, even though modern networks use CIDR.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Class A, B, C differ in network vs. host bits.
• We seek the class with very few networks but very many hosts per network.
• Historical ranges: A (0–127), B (128–191), C (192–223) in first octet.

Concept / Approach:
Class A allocated 8 bits for the network (7 usable) and 24 bits for hosts, yielding a tiny number of networks but roughly 16 million host addresses per network (theoretical). Class B balanced both, and Class C offered many networks with few hosts per network.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the class with maximum host bits: Class A has 24 host bits.Recognize this implies very large host capacity per network.A consequence is a small count of networks compared to Classes B and C.Therefore select Class A.

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare: Class B has 16 bits host portion (~65,534 hosts). Class C has 8 bits host portion (~254 hosts). This confirms Class A is the intended answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Class B balances networks and hosts; not “very few networks.”Class C provides many small networks; opposite of the requirement.All of the above is invalid because the property uniquely matches Class A.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing modern CIDR with legacy classes.
• Assuming private address ranges (10.0.0.0/8) define the class behavior; they are examples within the classful scheme.
• Forgetting that network and broadcast addresses reduce usable host counts slightly.

Final Answer:
Class A