TOPOLOGIES

Four basic types of network topologies

Mesh, Bus, Ring, Star

BUS TOPOLOGY

Multipoint topology Sharing Each computer has just one connection attached to a single cable that is shared by all other devices on the network Single starting and ending point At each of the cable is a device known as a terminator

Topologies in computer networking

refers to the physical layout of the network devices and cabling and how all the components communicate with each other.

Star Topology

All devices are connected to a central device The central device is kmown as a hub A multipoint star topolgy resembles a star when viewed from above

Mesh Topology

Also called a point-to-point topology Each device is connected directly to all other devices on the network Network of 4-each computer would need 3 connections and cables; Network of 30 computers, each would need 29 connections and cables.

Design Considerations

How many devices will be attached to the network? What is the maximum distance between the devices? What is the predicted growth for the network? What degree of faulth tolerance is necessary? How much money can be spent? What other networks will be connected to it?

Star Topology Disadvantages

If the hub fails, the entire network stops. It requires more cable Cable installation can be more difficult

Ring Topology Disadvatages

It can require more cable and special equipment It is not as widely used as a bus topology One malfunctioning computer can shut down the entire network.

Ring Topolgy Advantages

It is easy to manage It is good for networks with many devices Cable problems are easy to locate

BUS TOPOLOGY Advantages

It is simple and reliable It requires a small amount of cable Adding more devices to the network is easy to do

Star Topology Advantages

It is the easiest topology to manage and troubleshoot Adding additional devices is easy to do One malfunctioning computer or cable doesn't stop the entire network

Ring Topology

Opposite of a bus, a bus has two end points A ring is a circle with no ends All devices on the network are connected to the ring Packets travel in a loop in one direction

MESH Advamtages

Provides fault tolerance-the ability to overcome a failure Fault tolerance allows the network to continue functioning in the event of a cable failuresed in WANS to ensure that all sites continue toin t transmit in the event of a cable failure

MESH Disadvamtages

Rarely used in LANs High expense to equip each computer with an individual connection Large amount of cable required for all other computers on the network

BUS TOPOLOGY Disadvantages

Troubleshooting problem is difficult to do It becomes slower as more devices are added to the network A cable problem can shut down the entire network.