Computer Studies Made Simple : Network Topology

Network Topology

This term refers to the physical layout of connected devices in  a computer network .

It explains the locations of various computers in a network.

Types of Network Topologies:

Bus topology

Mesh Topology

Star Topology

Tree topology

Ring Topology


Bus Topology:

This is most simplest type of network

Its Is good for a network with small number of computers.

All computers in this network are connected to one common communication medium.

This medium Is called as BUS and is usally a central wire

Terminators are used at end of the BUS to absorb signals.

If two computers transmit data at the same time,a collision can take place.

This type of topology is mostly used in Peer to Peer Networks.

If a  computer  wants to send data to another computer in the network,it will do so via the bus.

The data and address move from one computer to another.

Each computer will check the address.If this matches with address of the computer,the computer will keep
the data.If not,the data will move on to the next computer.

Advantages:

1.It is simple to use

2.It is economical in terms of its costs.

3.Even if there is failure of one node,it will not affect working of rest of the network.

4.It is easy to add more computers to this network by extending the bus.

5.The amount of cable use is not much and thus is very cheap and easy to use.

Disadvantages:

1.Only a small number of computers are supported bythis network.

2.In case of an error in network,it is difficult to trouble shoot.

3.If more computers are added to this network,the network speed and efficiency will decrease.