Network topologies

Network topologies

1. Ring

   • A ring topology is a network configuration in which device connections create a circular data path. Each networked device is connected to two others,
   • Advantages
     • The network is not dependent on a central computer
     • Each computer has the same access as the others so no computer can hog the network
   • Disadvantages
     • If there is a break in the connection (wire or wireless), 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 thyere is only one path for the data to folllow

2. Bus

   • A bus topology is a topology for a Local Area Network (LAN) in which all the nodes are connected to a single cable
   • Advantages
     • Cost effective because of the small amount of cable needed
     • Simple cable runs makes 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

   • A star topology is a topology for a Local Area Network (LAN) in which all nodes are individually connected to a central connection point, like a hub or a switch.
   • Advantages
     • Fault tolerant- if one of the cables fails, then the other computers can still be used
     • Load tolerant- extra computers can be added without much loss in performance because all computers have their own path to the hub
     • Easy to add extra computers- extra computers can be added without disturbing the network
   • Disadvantages
     • Higher cost- large amount of cabling needed makes it a more expensive topology
     • Dependence on the central hub, switch or router

4. Wireless Network

   • Computers are able to connect to the internet or communicate with other computers in a local area network wirelessly
   • Wireless communication the data transfer medium is the air through which radio travels.
   • Wireless networks enable people to connect to the internet or to a LAN wirelessly. This means they can work anywhere they get radio signal
   • Advantages
     • Allows inexpensive LANS to be set up without cables
     • Allows people the freedom of working anywhere a signal can be recieved
     • Ideal for networks in old listed buildings where cables would not be allowed to install
     • Global set of standards- you can use WIFI all over the world
   • Disadvantages
     • Power consumption is high- which means laptops soon exhaust their recharable batteries
     • There may be health problems in using WIFI
     • There may be security problems even when encryption is used
     • Home networks have a very limited range
     • Can get interference if wireless network signals start to overlap