Network Topologies

Network Topologies

1. Mesh

   • BAD
     • Expensive if they don't use wireless
     • Difficult to manage and requires expert supervision
   • GOOD
     • If one component fails, there are still alternative routes for data to flow
     • Can handle high volumes of data traffic
     • Adding devices will not slow the data transmission
   • Every node is connected to the rest

2. Star

   • Each client is connected to a central point e.g. server or hub
   • GOOD
     • Data is only sent to the indented computer
     • Network traffic is kept to a minimum
     • If one link fails, communications aren't lost
     • New devices are easily added
   • BAD
     • If the central point fails, the entire network fails
     • Requires lots of cables

3. Bus

   • Each node is connected to a main cable or link
   • GOOD
     • Easy to set up
     • Cheap to install as only one cable is needed
     • Easy to add extra network devices
   • BAD
     • Lots of data collisions
     • If the cable fails or get damaged, the whole network would fail
     • If a terminator is removed, the whole network will fail

4. Ring

   • GOOD
     • Data transmission is simple as data travels in one direction only
     • There are no collisions due to the use of tokens (can only be used if they aren't busy)
   • BAD
     • Data must pass through each computer resulting in a slow transmission speed
     • If one machine is switched off, there will be no data transmission
     • If the cable breaks there will be no data transmission
   • Each node connects to two others in a continuous pathway