Page 117 - iPlus_Ver_2.0_class_8
P. 117

i +  TOPOLOGY

                 Topology or 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.  Let us learn about them.

                 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 in this topology is very difficult.












                                                             Bus Topology


                 Ring Topology

                 In this topology, all the nodes are connected in a circular path.
                 The messages  travel  in clockwise or  anti-clockwise direction.
                 Any damage to the cable of any node or device can result in

                 breakdown of the whole network.



                                                     Star Topology                              Ring 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 difficult as it involves a
                                                     connection all the way 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 very simple in nature as it is easier
                 to add new or remove the faulty nodes. But
                 its major disadvantage is that if the root node
                 fails to operate, the entire network is inoperable.                     Tree Topology



                                                                                                                 115
                                                                                          Computer Networking
   112   113   114   115   116   117   118   119   120   121   122