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Network topologies. What is a network topology?. Physical arrangement of the devices in a communications network. Most commonly used are bus and star. Usually a combination of these two, referred to as hybrid or tree networks. Bus topology.
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What is a network topology? • Physical arrangement of the devices in a communications network. • Most commonly used are bus and star. • Usually a combination of these two, referred to as hybrid or tree networks.
Bus topology • Many devices connect to a single cable ("backbone“). • If the backbone is broken, the entire segment fails. • Relatively easy to install and don't require much cabling compared to the alternatives.
Ring topology • Every device has two neighbours for communication purposes. • Messages travel through a ring in the same direction. • A failure in any cable or device breaks the loop and will take down the entire segment. • If any device is added to or removed from the ring, the ring is broken and the segment fails until it is reforged“. • Considerably more expensive than other topologies.
Star topology • Has a central connection point - like a hub or switch. • Involves more cable • If a cable fails, only one node will be brought down. • The central hub is usually a fast, self contained computer and is responsible for routing all traffic to other nodes. • The main advantage of a star network is that one malfunctioning node does not affect the rest of the network. • Can be prone to bottleneck and failure problems at the central site.
Hybrid/tree topology • Also known as the 'Hierarchical topology‘. • A combination of bus and star topologies. Very common in larger networks. • Typical scenario is: a file server is connected to a backbone cable that runs through the building, from which switches are connected, branching out to workstations.
Activities • Make a list of advantages/disadvantages for the topologies. • What topologies to you feel are outdated? • What type of topology does the school use? Why do you think they have chosen this one? • What topology would you suggest for a small business? Home network? Large business? Why?