Network topology

Ø Network topology is the arrangement of the various elements (links, nodes, etc.) of a computer network

Ø In computer networking, topology refers to the layout of connected devices.

Network topological are categorized into the following basic types:

·         bus

·         ring

·         star

·         tree

·         mesh

v Bus Topology

Bus networks (not to be confused with the system bus of a computer) use a common backbone to connect all devices.

v Ring Topology

In a ring network, every device has exactly two neighbors for communication purposes. All messages travel through a ring in the same direction (either "clockwise" or "counterclockwise"). A failure in any cable or device breaks the loop and can take down the entire network.

v Star Topology

Many home networks use the star topology. A star network features a central connection point called a "hub node" that may be a network hub , switch or router .

v Tree Topology

Tree topologies integrate multiple star topologies together onto a bus. In its simplest form, only hub devices connect directly to the tree bus, and each hub functions as the root of a tree of devices.

v Mesh Topology

Mesh topologies involve the concept of routes. Unlike each of the previous topologies, messages sent on a mesh network can take any of several possible paths from source to destination.

Summary

Topologies remain an important part of network design theory. You can probably build a home or small business computer network without understanding the difference between a bus design and a star design, but becoming familiar with the standard topologies gives you a better understanding of important networking concepts like hubs, broadcasts, and routes.

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