NETWORK TOPOLOGY? 

Hey. Did you know about network topology? what is that?

A network topology is the arrangement of a network, including its nodes and connecting lines. There are two ways of defining network geometry: the physical topology and the logical (or signal) topology..
Nah.. how about types of network toplogy?

In our syllabus, we learn about three types of network topoplogy: 

a) Star topology

b) Bus topology

c) Ring topology

                                                                                                                    

In the star network topology, there is a central computer or server to which all the workstations are directly connected. Every workstation is indirectly connected to every other through the central computer. 

• ADVANTAGES

1.  more scalable than a peer to peer or ring network.
2. Improved network performance. Hop count of three.

• DISADVANTAGES

1. It creates a single point of failure.
2. It depends upon the central Hub.
3. If Hub fails, the entire network will breaks down.

                                                                                                                    

In the bus network topology, every workstation is connected to a main cable called the bus.Therefore, in effect, each workstation is directly connected to every other workstation in the network.

• ADVANTAGES

1. Easy to install.
2. When the nodes addded and removed to and from the networks, the network is not affected.
3. If one nodes fail, the entire network does not affected.

• DISADVANTAGES

1. It can only support a small number of network.
2. Entire networks will fail if there is any problem at central cable.

                                                                                                                    

In the ring network topology, the workstations are connected in a closed loop configuration. Adjacent pairs of workstations are directly connected. Other pairs of workstations are indirectly connected, the data passing through one or more intermediate nodes.

If a Token ring protocol is used in a star or ring topology, the signal travels in only one direction, carried by a so-called token from node to node.

ADVANTAGES

1. Data is quickly transferred.
2. The transmission of data is simple as packets travels in one direction only.
3. Its prevent network collisions because of the media access network.

DISADVANTAGES

1. If any nodes fails, then the ring is broken and the data cannot be transmitted successfully.
2. It is difficult to troubleshoot the ring.
3. Total dependence upon the one cable.