Network Topology

The physical layout of local area network is called topology.

TYPES OF TOPOLOGY

The most common network topologies are:

1. Hierarchical topology (tree)

2. Horizontal or bus topology

3. Star topology

4. Ring topology

5. Mesh topology

6. Hybrid topology

1. Hierarchical topology or Bus Topology

The hierarchical topology is also called vertical network or a tree network. In most cases, the computer at the highest order of the hierarchy is in control of the network. The uppermost computer typically a large scale mainframe computer, controls all traffic between the end users.

Hierarchical topology

2. Horizontal Topology or Bus Topology

The bus topology permits the connection of terminals, devices and microcomputers along a common cable called a network bus. In a bus topology a signal is broad cast to all nodes, but only the destination node responds to the signal. Nodes can be attached to or detached from the network without affecting the network:

Horizontal or Bus Topology

3. Star Topology

Star topology involves a hub or centralized host computer that is responsible for managing the network. All messages are routed through the central computer. Any connection failure between anode and the hub will not affect the overall system. However if the hub computer fails, the network fails. The host computer could be any thing from PC to a super computer.

Start Topology

4. Ring Topology

Ring topology involves computer system of approximately the same size. A ring network links all nodes together in a circular chain. Messages travel in only on direction around the ring. There is no danger of date collision. However, if one node fails the entire network fails.

Ring Topology

5. Mesh Topology

In mesh network traffic can be route around failed or busy computers due to the multiplicity of paths. Mesh network is more reliable to that of the others.