Page 17 - Trackpad_V1_Book 8_Flipbook
P. 17
In some network structures, a single computer is designated as the control computer or the server.
The server directs 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 their lengths. The major disadvantage
of this topology is that fault detection in this topology is very difficult.
STAR TOPOLOGY
In this topology, the 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.
RING TOPOLOGY
In this topology, all the nodes are connected in a circular path. The messages
travel in a 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 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.
MESH TOPOLOGY
In this topology, every single node in a network is connected to all the
other nodes or computers in the network. There is minimal chance of
breakdown in this topology. This topology is mostly used in LANs.
NETWORKING TRANSMISSION MEDIA
Various components are interconnected with each other through some medium in a computer
network. The medium that enables you to transfer data from one computer to another is
known as a transmission medium. The cables that connect two or more workstations are the
communication channels. Computers in a small network can be connected by cables (mostly
copper conductors in twisted pairs or coaxial cables). Nowadays, optical fiber technology is
also used for networking.
Networking Concepts 15

