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Chapter Profile
TOPOLOGY
Topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of computers or nodes in a network. The
factors that determine the type of topology are cost, flexibility and
reliability. There are five
different types of topologies. Let us learn about these in detail.
Bus Topology
In this topology, all the nodes are connected to
a single common path. It is simple and easy to
maintain. Additional nodes can be connected at
any point along its length. The major disadvantage
of this topology is that fault detection is difficult,
and a failure in the main cable can bring down the
entire network. Bus Topology
Ring Topology
In this topology, all the nodes are connected in a circular path. The messages
are travelled in clockwise or anti clockwise direction. Any damage to the
cable of any node or device may result in breakdown of the whole network.
Ring Topology
Star Topology
In this topology, central node acts as a hub to which all the other
nodes are connected. As compared to the bus topology, star topology
requires more devices and cables. The addition of a new node to a
star topology is easier compared to other topologies such as bus as it
involves a connection only to the central node.
Star Topology
Tree Topology
In this topology, nodes are connected as branches of
a tree where hub acts as a root node. It is scalable as it
is easier to add or remove the faulty nodes. However,
its major disadvantage is that if the root node fails to
operate, the entire network is inoperable.
Tree Topology
Mesh Topology
In this topology, every single node in a network is connected to all
the other nodes or computers in the network. There are minimal
chances of network failure in this topology due to redundant
connections.
Mesh Topology
Computer Networking 11

