Topology 1&2

Topology 1&2

1. Ring Topology

   • Peer to peer network because there is no server.
   • All the computers arranged in a circle.
   • Data sent by one computer passes around the ring until it reaches the correct computer
   • Advantages
     • not dependent on a central computer
     • Each computer has the same access as the others so none of them can 'hog' the network.
   • Disadvantages
     • If there is a break in the connection then the whole network fails.
     • Faults are difficult to locate.
     • It is impossible to keep the network running whilst equipment is added or removed because there is only one path for the data to flow.

2. Bus Topology

   • With a bus topology, all the devices connected ti the network are connected to a common shared cable called the backbone.
   • Signals are passed in either direction along the backbone.
   • Advantages
     • Cost effective because of the small amount of cable needed .
     • Simple cable runs make it easy to install.
     • Easy to add extra devices to the network.
   • Disadvantages
     • If more than about 12 devices are connected to the network, then the performance of the network is degraded.
     • If there is a break in the backbone cable, then the network cannot be used.

3. Star Topology

   • The star topology uses a central connection point to connect all the devices on the network together.
   • The central connection point can be a hub, a switch or a router.
   • Advantages
     • Fault tolerant- if one of the cables fails, the the other computers can still be used.
     • Load tolerant- extra computers can be added without much loss in performance because all the computers have their own path to the hub.
     • Easy to add extra computers without disturbing the network.
   • Disadvantages
     • Higher cost- the large amount of cabling needed makes it more expensive topology.
     • Dependence on the central hub, switch or router- if the device at the centre of the network fails then the whole network will fail.