Types of Network Topologies
Network topology is the physical or logical form of a computer network. This topology describes how devices in a network are interconnected with each other. Choosing the right topology is crucial because it will affect the network’s performance, reliability, and cost.
Here are some commonly used types of network topologies:
1. Bus Topology
Bus topology is one of the simplest types of network topology. In a bus topology, all network devices are connected to a main cable called a “backbone.” This cable serves as the main path to transmit data from one device to another. Each device has only one connection to the main cable and does not have a direct connection with other devices.
Pros: Easy to install and cheap.
Cons: If the main cable breaks, the entire network will be disrupted.
2. Star Topology
Star topology is the most commonly used type of network topology. In a star topology, each device is connected to a center called a “switch” or “hub.” Each device has a direct connection to the hub, and data is sent from the device to the hub and then to the other devices.
Pros: Easy to manage, if there is a problem device it will not interfere with the entire network.
Cons: If the hub or switch is damaged, the entire network will be disrupted.
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3. Ring Topology
Ring topology is a type of network topology that is more complex than bus topology. In a ring topology, each device is connected to the other in a chain, forming a circle. Data is transmitted from one device to another in a specific direction, and each device can only transmit data to the next device in a loop.
Pros: Data can flow in both directions.
Cons: If there is damage to a single device, the entire network can be disrupted.
4. Mesh Topology
Mesh topology is the most complex and most fail-resistant type of network topology. In a mesh topology, each device is connected to every other device directly. Data can be transmitted through multiple paths, so if one path is damaged, the data can still move through the other.
Pros: Highly reliable because there are many alternative paths for data.
Cons: Requires a lot of cables and devices, making it very expensive.
5. Tree Topology
A combination of bus and star topologies. It has a central device that connects to other devices in a hierarchical form, similar to tree branches.
Pros: Clear hierarchy, easy to manage.
Disadvantages: If the roots are damaged, all branches below them will be disturbed.
6. Hybrid Topology
A hybrid topology is a combination of two or more basic network topologies, such as bus, ring, star, and mesh. The purpose of this topology is to combine the advantages of various topologies while reducing the disadvantages of each. Typically, hybrid topologies are used in large networks that require flexibility and scalability.
Pros: Flexible and can be adjusted to network needs.
Cons: Complexity in setup and management.
Ethernet Technology
Ethernet is a networking technology used to connect devices in a local area network (LAN). Known for its stability and ease of use, Ethernet has become the industry standard for wired networks. This technology regulates how data is sent and received over wires, as well as how devices in the network communicate with each other.
Types of Ethernet
1. Ethernet Standard (10Mbps):
- The speed is 10 Mbps, fast enough for most networking tasks.
- Ideal for small networks and applications that don’t require high speeds.
2. Fast Ethernet (100Mbps):
- Speed of 100 Mbps, faster than standard Ethernet.
- Ideal for networks that require high speeds such as desktop video and multimedia.
3. Gigabit Ethernet (1000BaseT):
- The speed of 1000 Mbps, is very fast and ideal for applications that require high speeds such as 4K video and other heavy applications.
4. Ethernet Fiber Optic (1000BaseSX/LX):
- Using fiber optic technology to improve network speed and security.
- Ideal for networks that require high speeds and higher security.