Computer Network Topologies

Computer Network Topologies

1. What is a topology?

   • A network topology is an arrangment or pattern in which all of the nodes in the network are connected

2. Star Topology

   • Advantages
     • A failure of one node will not effect others
     • It is very easy to set up
     • It is cheap
     • It sends data straight to the recipent
   • Disadvantages
     • If the central router is affected or fails it effects all of the nodes
     • Wired star networks can be expensive if you need to connect many nodes
   • How are the nodes connected?
     • A router with a wireless access point provides a central connection for all of the nodes

3. Mesh topologies

   • Disadvantages
     • More connections require more maintenance
     • All the connections are very expensive
   • Advantages
     • The data can be reached from and sent from multiple nodes
     • The data can be recieved quicker than star network as the rote is shorter
     • As there are multiple connections and no central node no nodes will become isolated
   • How are they connected?
     • Not all the nodes are directly connected so it has fewer routes for communication