What does VLSM help to improve in IP address allocation?

Variable Length Subnet Masking (VLSM) is a technique that allows network administrators to allocate IP addresses more efficiently by using different subnet masks for different subnets within the same network. This flexibility helps in optimizing the use of available IP address space, which means that more hosts can be accommodated within a given network while minimizing wasted addresses.

By employing VLSM, a network can assign smaller subnet masks to subnets that require fewer IP addresses, while larger subnets can receive larger masks according to their needs. This tailored approach ensures that IP address allocation matches the actual usage patterns, leading to improved address efficiency. Consequently, networks can grow without the need for excessive IP address allocation, making better use of the available address space.

Address performance, router performance, and security measures, while important in networking, are not directly enhanced by the use of VLSM. The main advantage of VLSM lies in its ability to facilitate a more effective and efficient IP address management strategy.