What is Computer Network Topology?  What are the 5 network topologies? 

A network topology refers to how network or computer devices are linked to each other.

Topologies could be a way to define physical and logical components in the system. Physical and logical topologies can be the same or different within an identical network.

Topologies offer a variety of configurative which can be used to build networks. A network is a set of interconnected devices via communication routes to exchange data and share resources. Topology is a design pattern for computers that describe how the devices are connected. 

A topology may either be logical or physical. Physical topologies of networks refer to the configuration of cables, peripherals and computers, and other devices, whereas logical topology refers to how the network's interoperable behavior.

 

Types of Network Topology

• Star Topology
• Ring Topology
• Bus Topology
• Tree Topology
• Mesh Topology

 

STAR TOPOLOGY  

In the star network, many computers or devices are linked to one central computer and a central network. Hobs are points that manage and control all the functions in the networks. Hobs are connected to devices via fiber optic or copper cables. 

It offers a cost-effective way to share information between multiple users. It is utilized in airline reservation counters as well as small-sized business offices.

 

ADVANTAGE  

•  Installation is simple, and wires are easy to connect.   
•  There is no description for the network, connecting, and removing the device.   
•  It is simple to identify problems and remove parts.  

DISADVANTAGE  

•  More extensive.  
•  Hob problems can lead to network breakdown.  
•  An increase in the device can make networks slow.  

 

RING TOPOLOGY  

Many devices or computers are connected through a single cable in rings, also known as a 100p network. The data flow is in one direction: clockwise or anticlockwise. 

Each device functions as a repeater within the topology of the ring. Within a ring, topology collisions are minimized since only one device can be allowed to transmit at once.

 

ADVANTAGES  

•  It is easier to manage as compared to a bus network 
•  No terminators are needed. 
•  Give you clear and reliable communication across long distances.  

DISADVANTAGE  

•  More cable wires that are connected to form bus topology are needed  
•  A single device that is defective can impact the entire network  

 

BUS TOPOLOGY  

Bus topology can also be described as the linear bus. A bus topology device that shares a standard backbone cable to transmit and receive information. A thick coaxial cable is a great way to connect any device. 

In a bus topology, each PC is attached to the same cable or device on the network. This type of topology is often utilized in conjunction with the network for local areas.

Bus topology employs a daisy chain scheme to connect more devices to the network. In this case, device 1 is connected to device 2, and device 2 is connected to device 3. The first (device 1) and the last device are connected to a 50-ohm terminator resistor.

 

ADVANTAGE  

•  It is simple to connect a device to a linear bus. 
•  Cheaper than other types of topology. 
•  Work better for the smaller network.  

DISADVANTAGE  

•  A limited no. Of devices can be connected.  
•  It is difficult to remove the defective device. 
•  The entire network is affected if there's a fault on the primary cable. 
•  Costlier than a single-node topology. 

 

MESH TOPOLOGY  

In a mesh topology, every device is connected, or networks have points-to-point connections between all devices in the network of devices. The data transmitted by the device may travel any route to get to the destination.

Mesh topology isn't utilized frequently due to its intricate structure. WAN is an example of mesh topology. It's an interconnection of several LANs.

 

ADVANTAGES  

•  The entire network is not affected by a single device.
•  It is easy to identify a malfunctioning device.  

DISADVANTAGE  

•  A greater amount of cabling is needed compared to the star, bus, and ring topologies.
•  It is expensive in comparison with bus, star, or ring topologies. 
•  The system is hard to modify.

 

TREE TOPOLOGY

A tree topology is a system where computers are connected hierarchically. That is why it is referred to as the hierarchical or tree topology. It combines the features of a linear bus and star topology. It works with a star-configured workstation connected to an asynchronous bus backbone cable.

 

ADVANTAGE

• It is easy to spread an existing network.
• It is easy to spot a malfunctioning device.

DISADVANTAGE

• A fault in the backbone can affect every part of the system.
• More expensive than other topologies.