Network Topology

Network Topology - A Network Topology is

the arrangement of a network, including its
nodes and connecting lines. There are two
ways of defining network. The Physical
Topology and The Logical Topology.

Physical Topology- a network refers to the configuration of

cables, computers and other peripherals. Physical topology
should not be confused with logical topology which is the
method used to pass information between workstations.
Types of Physical Topology

1. LINEAR BUS
A linear bus topology consist of a main run cable with a
terminator at each end. File server, workstation and peripherals
are connected to the linear cable.

Advantages of a Linear Bus Topology

1. Easy to connect a computer or peripheral to a linear bus
2. Requires less cable length than a star topology

Disadvantages of a Linear Bus Topology

1. Entire network shuts down if there is a break in the main cable
2. Terminators are required at both ends of the backbone cable.
3. Difficult to identify the problem if the entire network shuts down.
4. Not meant to be used as a stand- alone solution in a large
building.
2. Star Topology
A Star topology is designed with each node connected directly
to a central network hub, switch or concentrator.
Data on star network passes through the hub, switch or
concentrator before continuing to its destination. The hub,
switch or concentrator manages and controls all function of the
network.

Advantages of a Star Topology

1. Easy to install and wire.
2. No disruptions to the network when connecting or
removing devices.
3. Easy to detect faults and to remove parts.
Disadvantages of a Star Topology
1. Require more cable length than a linear topology
2. If the hub fails nodes attached are disabled.
3. More expensive than linear bus topologies because the
cost of the hubs.
3. TREE TOPOLOGY
A tree topology combines characteristics of linear bus and star
topologies. It consist of groups of star configured workstation
connected to a linear bus back bone cable.

Advantages of a Tree Topology

1. Point to point wiring for individual segments.
2. Supported by several hardware and software venders
Disadvantages of a Tree Topology
1. Overall length of each segment is limited by the type of
cabling used
2. If the backbone line breaks, the entire segment goes down
3. More difficult to configure and wire than other topologies.
SUMMARY OF NETWORK TOPOLOGY

Physical Topology Common Cable Common Protocol

Linear Bus Twisted pair Ethernet

Coaxial
Fiber
Star Twisted pair Ethernet
Fiber
Tree Twisted pair Ethernet
Coaxial
Fiber

SUMMARY OF THE NETWORK TYPES

There are three types of network types Local Area Network,
Metropolitan Area Network and Wide Area Network. Local Area
Network is connected two or more computers in one places,
Metropolitan Area Network is a network in one city while Wide
Area Network is one country network.
 Net
wor
Network Types- A network is defined as a group of
two or more computer systems linked together.
There are many types of computer networks.

k
Types of Networks
Local Area Network (LAN)

Type
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Wide Area Network (WAN)

s
Wireless
Inter Network (Internet)
1. Local Area Network (LAN)
LAN can be a simple network like connecting two
computers, to share files and network among each
other while it can also be as complex as
interconnecting an entire building

2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

It was developed in 1980s. It is basically a bigger
version of LAN. It is also called MAN and uses the
similar technology as LAN. It is designed to extend
over the entire city.
3. Wide Area Network (WAN)
It is also called WAN. WAN can be private or it can
be public leased network. It is used for the network
that covers large distance such as cover states of a
country.

4. Wireless
The radio network used for cellular telephones is an
example of a low-bandwidth wireless WAN.
5. Inter Network (Internet)
Inter network or internet is a combination of two or
more networks. Inter network can be formed by
joining two or more individual networks by means
of various devices such as routers, gateways and
bridge.