Question:

Consider an enterprise network with two Ethernet segments, a web server and a firewall, connected via three routers as shown below. 
 

What is the number of subnets inside the enterprise network? 
 

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A subnet is created whenever there is a distinct network segment, and devices connected through routers or switches typically define new subnets.
Updated On: Jan 11, 2026
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

In the given enterprise network, we observe the following components:

1. Two Ethernet segments: These represent two distinct network segments, each of which forms a subnet. The Ethernet networks are part of the enterprise network and each will be considered as one subnet. Hence, we have 2 subnets from the two Ethernet segments.

2. Web Server: The web server is connected to one of the routers, typically requiring a separate subnet for management, web services, and routing. Thus, it represents 1 subnet.

3. Firewall: The firewall sits between the internal enterprise network and the external network (internet). It separates traffic from the enterprise network and external network, acting as a router between two segments. It typically has 2 interfaces, each associated with a different subnet, namely the internal subnet (enterprise network side) and the external subnet (internet side). Therefore, the firewall creates 2 additional subnets.

4. Three Routers: The three routers interconnect the different network segments. Each router interface generally connects a separate subnet.

Considering all the connections and components:
- 2 Ethernet segments: 2 subnets
- Web server: 1 subnet
- Firewall: 2 subnets
- Routers: Their interfaces also create additional subnets, but these are already counted in the connections (routers are gateways between subnets).
Thus, the total number of subnets in the enterprise network is 6.
Final Answer: (C)
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