Refer to the exhibit. Which configuration parameter is preventing host С from reaching the internet?

An incorrect IP address assignment would likely prevent all network communication, not just internet access, unless it's only a conflict.

An incorrect IP network mask (subnet mask) would cause issues with local subnet communication and reaching the gateway itself, leading to broader connectivity problems.

The default gateway is the essential configuration parameter that directs traffic from a host to devices outside its local subnet, including the internet. If Host C has an incorrect or missing default gateway, it cannot send packets to remote networks and thus cannot reach the internet.

Automatic DNS issues would prevent resolving domain names but would not stop the host from reaching internet sites via their direct IP addresses, indicating the issue is not purely DNS.