Why can't the network address be assigned to a host?

sixarm

Is anyone able to explain why the network address of any given subnet cannot be assigned to a host as a usable address? The broadcast is obvious. A friend of mine asked me why and I simply couldn't answer. I've had a dig around online, but not really finding a definitive reason.

Cheers.

kryolla

its what routers use to exchange routes between each other

Megadeth4168

It is because that number is the network Identifier. The only example I could use would be your Street address. You wouldn't tell someone trying to mail you something that you live on Main Street (The identifier). You would tell them that you live at 123 Main Street.

Sorry, It's the best example I can come up with at the moment.

sixarm

Thanks for the swift replies, that makes perfect sense. Nice one!