NETWORKING

Definition of network

A computer network often simply referred to as network, is a collection of computers and

devices interconnected by communications channels that facilitate communications among
users and allows users to share resources.

A computer network allows sharing of resources and information among interconnected

devices.

Network exists for one major reason: to share information and resources.

Types of networks

Ethernet

Token ring

Arcnet

Arcnet

An acronym from Attached Resource Computer Network is a star LAN network. It was the first
widely available networking system for microcomputers and became popular in the 1980s for
office automation tasks. Arcnet was developed by John Murphy at Datapoint Corporation in
1976.

Token ring

Token ring local Area network(LAN) technology is a ring topology network.

It uses a special three-byte frame called a token that travels around the ring. Physically, when
implemented, the computers are connected through cables to a “HUB”.

It is the hub that manages the network in a ring topology manner. An example of a token ring
network is the IBM Token Ring.

Ethernet

Ethernet is a bus topology LAN network system. Ethernet LANs use coaxial or twisted pair
cables to connect computer systems

Network Topology

In computer networking, topology refers to the layout of connected devices. There are two
types of network topology, a physical topology and a logical topology.

The physical topology of a network refers to the layout of the cables and network devices; and
logical topology refers to the method of communication of the network devices.

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 Network topologies are categorized into the following basic types:

1. Star topology
2. Bus topology
3. Ring topology
Star topology: the network devices are connected to central like a Star.
The central point may be a hub, a switch or a router. All the individual network devices
communicate with the central point.
Thus once the hub fails, the whole network is grounded but if any other network decice
fails, the network will be operating without the failed device.
Also, the star topology requires more cables because cables are laid from all the network
devices to the hub.
A star topology is designed with each node(file server, workstations, and peripheral(s)
connected directly to a central network hub, switch, or concentrator.
Data on a star network passes through the hub, switch, or concentrator before continuing
to its destination. The hub, switch, or concentrator manages and controls all functions of
the network.
It also acts as a reapeater for the data flow. This configuration is common with twisted pair
cable, coaxial cable or fiber optic cable. An example of star network is the ARCNET.
Advantages of a Star Topology
Easy to install and wire
No disruptions to the network when connecting or removing devices.
Easy to detect faults and to remove parts.
Disadvantages of a Star Topology
Requires more cable length than a linear topology
If the hub , switch or concentrator fails, nodes attached are disable.
More expensive than linear bus topologies because of the cost of the hubs, switches or
concentrators.

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