CIDR and subnet allocation for your dataplane

What is CIDR?

CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing) is a notation used to define IP address ranges. A CIDR value consists of a base IP address and a prefix length.

The prefix length determines the size of the network:

• Lower prefix number indicates a larger network.
• Higher prefix number indicates a smaller network.

For example, 10.0.0.0/16 represents a larger network than 10.0.0.0/24.

How CIDR is used in dataplane deployments

The CIDR block that you provide defines the primary address space for your virtual network. The system automatically generates subnet ranges within this CIDR block.

Subnets are created sequentially and do not overlap. Each subnet is allocated a portion of the available IP address space.

To configure a CIDR value during dataplane creation, see Configuring network CIDR for your dataplane .

Automatic subnet allocation

The system creates subnets required for platform components within the provided CIDR range.

• Operations and management
• Private connectivity
• Storage services
• Kubernetes (AKS) cluster

This process ensures efficient use of the available address space and eliminates the need for manual subnet configuration.

Why CIDR selection is important

Selecting an appropriate CIDR ensures that the virtual network has sufficient IP address capacity and avoids deployment issues.

• Provides enough IP addresses for all components
• Prevents subnet overlap
• Ensures successful dataplane deployment

Reserved CIDR ranges

Certain IP ranges are reserved for platform services and cannot be used when configuring your CIDR.

For example: 172.20.0.0/15

You must choose a CIDR that does not overlap with reserved ranges.

Key points

• CIDR defines the address space of your virtual network.
• Subnets are automatically created within the CIDR.
• Lower prefix numbers represent larger networks.
• Valid CIDR selection prevents deployment failures.