Types of Network Topology
Types of Network Topology
The arrangement of a network which comprises of nodes and connecting lines via sender and receiver is referred as network topology. The various network topologies are;
- Ring Topology
- Bus Topology
- Mesh Topology
- Star Topology
- Hybrid Topology
Mesh Topology
In mesh topology, every device is connected to another device via particular channel.
Advantages of Mesh Topology
- It is robust.
- Fault is diagnosed easily. Data is reliable because data is transferred among the devices through dedicated channels or links.
- Provides security and privacy.
Problems with Mesh topology
- Installation and configuration is difficult.
- Cost of cables are high as bulk wiring is required, hence suitable for less number of devices.
- Cost of maintenance is high.
Star Topology
In star topology, all the devices are connected to a single hub through a cable. This hub is the central node and all others nodes are connected to the central node. The hub can be passive in nature i.e. not intelligent hub such as broadcasting devices, at the same time the hub can be intelligent known as active hubs. Active hubs have repeaters in them.
Advantages of Star Topology
- If N devices are connected to each other in star topology, then the number of cables required to connect them is N. So, it is easy to set up.
- Each device require only 1 port i.e. to connect to the hub.
Problems with Star Topology
- If the concentrator (hub) on which the whole topology relies fails, the whole system will crash down. Cost of installation is high.
- Performance is based on the single concentrator i.e. hub.
Bus Topology
Bus topology is a network type in which every computer and network device is connected to single cable. It transmits the data from one end to another in single direction. No bi-directional feature is in bus topology.
Advantages of Bus Topology
- If N devices are connected to each other in bus topology, then the number of cables required to connect them is 1 which is known as backbone cable and N drop lines are required.
- Cost of the cable is less as compared to other topology, but it is used to built small networks.