Page 17 - Trackpad_V2.1_class8
P. 17
Tick ( ) if you know this.
▶ A network is defined as a group of devices that are linked together to share information, data
and resources.
▶ The Internet is a collection of vast number of computers spread across the world.
TOPOLOGIES
Topology or network structure is the layout of the connection formed between computers. The
efficiency and reliability of a network is determined by its structure. In other words, Topology
refers to the geometric arrangement of computers or nodes in a network.
In some network structures, a single computer is designated as the control computer or the server.
The server manages traffic and maintains order in the network. Other network structures require
no server. Let us now look at the main network structures or topologies.
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.
STAR TOPOLOGY
In this topology, the central node acts as a hub to which all the other nodes
are connected. Compared to the bus topology, star topology requires more
devices and cables. The addition of a new node to a star topology is easy as
it involves a connection all the way to the central node.
RING TOPOLOGY
In this topology, all the nodes are connected in a circular path. The messages
travel in the clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. Any damage to the cable
of any node or device can result in the breakdown of the whole network.
TREE TOPOLOGY
In this topology, nodes are connected as branches of a tree where
the hub acts as a root node. It is scalable as it is easier to add new or
remove the faulty nodes. However, its major disadvantage is that
if the root node fails to operate, the entire network is inoperable.
Networking Concepts 15

