1.5 Network Topology
Network topology
is the physical or logical arrangement of computers, cables, and other network
devices in a network.
It shows how devices are
connected and how data travels between them.
A LAN Topology is a
cabling structure or pattern of computers in a local area.
Types of Network Topology
i. Bus Topology
ii. Star Topology
iii. Ring Topology
iv. Hybrid Topology
Bus Topology
Bus topology is a network
topology in which all computers and devices are connected to a single main
cable called a bus.
The cable has terminators
at both ends to prevent signal loss and ensure proper data transmission.
When the bus topology has
exactly two endpoints, it is called a Linear Bus Topology.
Features of Bus Topology
i. Requires less cable
than many other topologies
ii. Cost-effective and economical
iii. Easy to understand and install
iv. Suitable for small networks
v. Easy to expand
vi. Terminators are required at both ends of the cable
Advantages of Bus
Topology
- Low installation cost
- Requires less cable
- Easy to extend the network
Disadvantages of Bus
Topology
- Failure of the main cable can affect
the entire network
- Network performance decreases as more
devices are added
- Troubleshooting can be difficult
Star Topology
Star topology is a
network topology in which all computers and devices are connected to a central
device called a hub or switch through separate cables.
The hub or switch
controls the communication between devices in the network.
Features of Star Topology
i. Provides fast
performance and low network traffic
ii. Easy to install, troubleshoot, and modify
iii. Failure of one node does not affect other nodes
iv. Easy to add or remove devices
v. Widely used in modern networks
Advantages of Star
Topology
- Fast and efficient communication
- Easy network management
- Easy fault detection
- Failure of one device does not affect
the entire network
Disadvantages of Star
Topology
- Requires more cable than bus topology
- Depends on the central hub or switch
- Failure of the hub or switch can
affect the entire network
Ring Topology
Ring topology is a
network topology in which each computer is connected to the next computer, and
the last computer is connected to the first, forming a closed loop or ring.
Data travels from one
computer to another in a sequential manner around the ring.
Features of Ring Topology
i. Forms a closed loop
network
ii. Each computer has equal responsibility in data transmission
iii. Data is transmitted sequentially from one device to another
iv. Network performance is less affected by high traffic
v. Can support a large number of nodes using repeaters
Advantages of Ring
Topology
- Equal access for all devices
- Handles network traffic efficiently
- Easy to expand the network
Disadvantages of Ring
Topology
- Failure of one node or cable can
affect the entire network
- Troubleshooting can be difficult
- Adding or removing devices may
disrupt the network
Hybrid Topology
Hybrid topology
is a network topology formed by combining two or more different topologies,
such as star, bus, and ring, into a single network.
It combines the
advantages of different topologies to provide better flexibility, reliability,
and performance.
Features of Hybrid
Topology
i. Allows easy expansion
of the network
ii. Supports the addition of new devices and technologies
iii. Reduces the risk of complete network failure
iv. Combines the advantages of different topologies
v. Provides better speed and efficiency
Advantages of Hybrid
Topology
- Flexible and scalable
- Reliable network performance
- Easy to expand
- Better fault tolerance
Disadvantages of Hybrid
Topology
- Complex network design
- Higher installation cost
- More difficult to manage than simple
topologies
