Which IP mode requires you to manually set the IP address and subnet mask?

The correct choice is Static IP mode, as this mode explicitly requires the user to manually configure both the IP address and the subnet mask. In Static IP mode, each device on a network is assigned a fixed IP address that does not change, allowing for consistent addressing and easier management of network services.

This manual configuration is crucial in environments where specific addressing is required, such as when setting up servers, printers, or other devices that must maintain the same IP address over time. By specifying the IP address and subnet mask, network administrators can ensure that devices communicate correctly within the same subnet and that routing between different networks is clear and manageable.

In contrast, Native Bridge Mode typically functions by allowing devices to bridge traffic across different interfaces without the need for IP address settings, often relying on protocols instead. IP Unnumbered mode allows a device to send packets without configuring a specific IP address, instead borrowing an IP from another interface. Transparent IP mode functions similarly by passing IP packets through the device without requiring the setup of IP addresses. Each of these modes serves specific purposes in network configuration but does not necessitate manual configuration of both the IP address and subnet mask.