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bdorminy

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Maximum number of nodes on a subnet.

The question has been asked once and I realize there is no clear cut answer, but is there any documentation or standard that gives any indication of how many computers can be put on one ip subnet? I am in search of formal documentation that says more than x number of computers on a subnet is a bad thing. I know it is (with exceptions) but I have people that need formal documentation to prove it.
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ahoffmann
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dkpalais

If I read your question correctly, you are attempting to address possible performance issues due to exceeding a maximum number of nodes on a network.

As far as I know, there is no limit on the number of nodes on an IP subnet due to performance reasons. Rather, it is a function of mathmatics (as illustrated by ahoffman). This can be demonstrated by looking at the Internet (think of how many networks/subnets there are there).

Performace issues are addressed at the lower layers of the ISO stack (i.e. Layer 1 and 2, Data Link and Physical).

I would suggest you take a look at design guidelines for the network topology you are using (Ethernet, Frame Relay, etc...). If you would like to pursue this, let me know what network topology you are using and I can send back some guidelines I have.

Hope this is of some help.
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mikecr
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bdorminy:
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my mathematics are still valid ..
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