Here's a TCP/IP Configuration question. Please bear in mind that I
     only manage the HP3000 and not the network configuration.

     Currently, we have 3 consecutive class C addresses (for example,
     192.77.14  192.77.15  192.77.16). The network is configured as a
     supernet that does not route between the addresses; our switches
     manage traffic between segments (this is all in one building). The
     HP3000 has a subnet mask of 255.255.252.000.

     The Network Admin has a desire to break the supernet down into subnets
     where each IP class is separated by routers. So, here comes my
     question: does the subnet mask of the HP3000 need to be further
     restricted down to 255.255.255.000 or can I leave it as is??

     As I understand masks, I do NOT believe it needs to be changed. By
     leaving the mask at 255.255.252.000 the HP will simply look at more
     bits that the last 3. Given the potential impact of making this type
     of change to our network, I'd prefer to leave the HP3000 as is so that
     it's configuration is stable and more certain.

     TIA,

     Mike Gabriel
     Hughes Avicom International
     mdgabriel @ ccgate.hac.com