Computer Network Topologies
Maninder Kaur
professormaninder@[Link]
What is a Topology?
Network topologies describe the ways in which the elements of a
network are mapped. They describe the physical and logical
arrangement of the network nodes.
The physical topology of a network refers to the configuration of
cables, computers, and other peripherals
Different Types of Topologies
Bus Topology
Star Topology
Ring Topology
Mesh Topology
Tree Topology
Hybrid Topology
Bus Topology
All the nodes (file server, workstations, and peripherals) on a bus
topology are connected by one single cable.
A bus topology consists of a main run of cable with a terminator at
each end. All nodes (file server, workstations, and peripherals) are
connected to the linear cable.
Popular on LANs because they are inexpensive and easy to install.
Bus Topology
Bus Topology
Advantages of Bus Topology
It is Cheap, easy to handle and implement.
Require less cable
It is best suited for small networks.
Disadvantages of Bus Topology
The cable length is limited. This limits the number of stations that
can be connected.
This network topology can perform well only for a limited number of
nodes.
Ring Topology
In a ring network, every device has exactly two neighbours for
communication purposes.
All messages travel through a ring in the same direction.
A failure in any cable or device breaks the loop and can take down the
entire network.
To implement a ring network we use the Token Ring technology
A token, or small data packet, is continuously passed around the
network. When a device needs to transmit, it reserves the token for the
next trip around, then attaches its data packet to it.
Ring Topology
Ring Topology
Advantage of Ring Topology
Very orderly network where every device has access to the token and the
opportunity to transmit.
Easier to Mange than a Bus Network
Good Communication over long distances
Handles high volume of traffic
Disadvantages of Ring Topology
The failure of a single node of the network can cause the entire network
to fail.
The movement or changes made to network nodes affects the
performance of the entire network.
Star Topology
In a star network, each node (file server, workstations, and peripherals) is
connected to a central device called a hub.
The hub takes a signal that comes from any node and passes it along to
all the other nodes in the network.
Data on a star network passes through the hub, switch, or concentrator
before continuing to its destination.
The hub, switch, or concentrator manages and controls all functions of
the network.
The star topology reduces the chance of network failure by connecting
all of the systems to a central node.
Star Topology
Star Topology
Advantages of Star Topology
Easy to manage
Easy to locate problems (cable/workstations)
Easier to expand than a bus or ring topology.
Easy to install and wire.
Easy to detect faults and to remove parts.
Disadvantages of Star Topology
Requires more cable length than a linear topology.
If the hub or concentrator fails, nodes attached are disabled.
More expensive because of the cost of the concentrators.
Tree Topology
A tree topology (hierarchical topology) can be viewed as a collection
of star networks arranged in a hierarchy.
This tree has individual peripheral nodes which are required to
transmit to and receive from one other only and are not required to
act as repeaters or regenerators.
The tree topology arranges links and nodes into distinct hierarchies in
order to allow greater control and easier troubleshooting.
This is particularly helpful for colleges, universities and schools so
that each of the connect to the big network in some way.
Tree Topology
Tree Topology
Advantages of a Tree Topology
Point-to-point wiring for individual segments.
Supported by several hardware and software vendors.
All the computers have access to the larger and their immediate
networks.
Disadvantages of a Tree Topology
Overall length of each segment is limited by the type of cabling used.
If the backbone line breaks, the entire segment goes down.
More difficult to configure and wire than other topologies.
Mesh Topology
In this topology, each node is connected to every other node in the
network.
Implementing the mesh topology is expensive and difficult.
In this type of network, each node may send message to destination
through multiple paths.
While the data is travelling on the Mesh Network it is automatically
configured to reach the destination by taking the shortest route which
means the least number of hops.
Mesh Topology
Mesh Topology
Advantage of Mesh Topology
No traffic problem as there are dedicated links.
It has multiple links, so if one route is blocked then other routes can
be used for data communication.
Points to point links make fault identification easy.
Disadvantage of Mesh Topology
There is mesh of wiring which can be difficult to manage.
Installation is complex as each node is connected to every node.
Cabling cost is high.
Hybrid Topology
A combination of any two or more network topologies.
A hybrid topology always accrues when two different basic network
topologies are connected.
It is a mixture of above mentioned topologies. Usually, a central
computer is attached with sub-controllers which in turn participate in
a variety of topologies
Hybrid Topology
Hybrid Topology
Advantages of a Hybrid Topology
It is extremely flexible.
It is very reliable.
Disadvantages of a Hybrid Topology
Expensive
THANKS A LOT
HAVE A NICE DAY