Network Topology (18/5/15)

NETWORK TOPOLOGY

What is a network topology?

• In communication networks, a topology is a usually schematic description of the arrangement of a network, including its nodes and connecting lines.
• The physical topology of a network is the actual geometric layout of workstations.

Star

• In the star network topology, there is a central computer server to which all the workstations are directly connected.

Bus

• In the bus network topology, every workstation is connected to a main cable called the bus. Therefore, in effect, each workstation is directly connected to every other workstation in the network.

Tree

• The tree network topology uses two or more star networks connected together. The central computers of the star networks are connected to a main bus. Thus a tree network is a bus network of star networks.  

Ring

• In a ring network, every device has exactly two neighbors for communication purposes. All messages travel through a ring in the same direction.