what is network topology and types
Network topology refers to the physical or logical layout or configuration of a computer network. It determines how devices such as computers, servers, routers, switches, and cables are connected and communicate with each other.
There are several types of network topologies:
1. Bus Topology: In this topology, all devices are connected to a central cable called a bus. Messages are transmitted along the bus, and each device listens for the messages addressed to it. It is a simple and inexpensive topology but can experience performance issues if there is heavy network traffic.
2. Star Topology: In this topology, each device is connected to a central hub or switch through individual cables. The hub or switch acts as a central point for communication. If one device fails, it does not affect the functioning of other devices. It is a popular and commonly used topology.
3. Ring Topology: In this topology, devices are connected in a circular manner, with each device connected to two other devices, forming a path for data transmission. Messages travel in one direction around the ring. It provides equal access to all devices in the network but can be challenging to troubleshoot and scale.
4. Mesh Topology: In this fully connected topology, each device is connected to every other device in the network. It provides redundancy and allows for multiple paths for data transmission, making it highly reliable. However, it is complex, expensive, and can require a large number of physical connections.
5. Tree Topology: It is also known as a hierarchical topology or a hybrid between the bus and star topologies. It consists of multiple star topologies connected together through a bus. This allows for the expansion of the network by adding additional star topologies to the bus.
6. Hybrid Topology: This is a combination of two or more topologies. For example, a network may have a combination of star and ring topologies or a combination of bus and ring topologies. It is flexible and can be customized based on the network's specific requirements.
Each topology has its advantages and disadvantages and is suited for different network sizes, scalability needs, fault tolerance requirements, and budget constraints.