BUS TOPOLOGY Definition Network cabling scheme in which all computers and devices (nodes) are connected to a single

cable so that all nodes receive the same message at the same time. Advantages

Easy to implement and extend. Well-suited for temporary or small networks not requiring high speeds (quick setup), resulting in faster networks. It is less expensive than other topologies (But in recent years has become less important due to devices like a switch) Cost effective; only a single cable is used. Easy identification of cable faults.

Disadvantages

Limited cable length and number of stations. If there is a problem with the cable, the entire network breaks down. Maintenance costs may be higher in the long run. Performance degrades as additional computers are added or on heavy traffic (shared bandwidth). Proper termination is required (loop must be in closed path). Significant Capacitive Load (each bus transaction must be able to stretch to most distant link). It works best with limited number of nodes. Commonly has a slower data transfer rate than other topologies. Only one packet can remain on the bus during one clock pulse

RING TOPOLOGY Definition Each node connects to exactly two other nodes, forming a single continuous pathway for signals through each node - a ring. Data travels from node to node, with each node along the way handling every packet.

Advantages

Very orderly network where every device has access to the token and the opportunity to transmit Performs better than a bus topology under heavy network load Does not require a central node to manage the connectivity between the computers

Disadvantages

One malfunctioning workstation can create problems for the entire network Moves, adds and changes of devices can affect the network Communication delay is directly proportional to number of nodes in the network Bandwidth is shared on all links between devices

STAR TOPOLOGY Definition consists of one central switch, hub or computer, which acts as a conduit to transmit messages. This consists of a central node, to which all other nodes are connected; this central node provides a common connection point for all nodes through a hub.[1] Thus, the hub and leaf nodes, and the transmission lines between them, Advantages

Better performance: star topology prevents the passing of data packets through an excessive number of nodes. At most, 3 devices and 2 links are involved in any communication between any two devices. Although this topology places a huge overhead on the central hub, with adequate capacity, the hub can handle very high utilization by one device without affecting others. Isolation of devices: Each device is inherently isolated by the link that connects it to the hub. This makes the isolation of individual devices straightforward and amounts to disconnecting each device from the others. This isolation also prevents any noncentralized failure from affecting the network. Benefits from centralization: As the central hub is the bottleneck, increasing its capacity, or connecting additional devices to it, increases the size of the network very easily. Centralization also allows the inspection of traffic through the network. This facilitates analysis of the traffic and detection of suspicious behavior. Easy to detect faults and to remove parts. No disruptions to the network when connecting or removing devices.

Disadvantages

High dependence of the system on the functioning of the central hub Failure of the central hub renders the network inoperable More difficult to configure than a Star: node adjunction Ring shutdown and reconfiguration

MESH TOPOLOGY Definition

each of the network node, computer and other devices, are interconnected with one another. Every node not only sends its own signals but also relays data from other nodes. In fact a true mesh topology is the one where every node is connected to every other node in the network. This type of topology is very expensive as there are many redundant connections, thus it is not mostly used in computer networks. It is commonly used in wireless networks. Flooding or routing technique is used in mesh topology. Advantages of Mesh topology

1) Data can be transmitted from different devices simultaneously. This topology can withstand high traffic. 2) Even if one of the components fails there is always an alternative present. So data transfer doesnt get affected. 3) Expansion and modification in topology can be done without disrupting other nodes. Disadvantages of Mesh topology

1) There are high chances of redundancy in many of the network connections. 2) Overall cost of this network is way too high as compared to other network topologies. 3) Set-up and maintenance of this topology is very difficult. Even administration of the network is tough.

EXTENDED STAR TOPOLOGY Definition

uses the star topology to be created. It links individual stars together by linking the hubs/ switches. This will extend the length of the network Advantages Great for security because everything goes through the central point. Depending on the network and the devices used collisions could be a problem. Easy to setup. Just jack everything in to the central point. Keep wiring to a minimal.

Disadvantages

When the central point goes so does your network. But at least youll know were the problem is. if the central hub has some errors, then the communication between the systems fail, as the nodes are highly dependent on the proper functioning of the central hub. There is a limit to the number of networks that can be connected to the hub and the performance of the entire computer network is monitored by its throughput.

HIERARCHICAL TOPOLOGY Definition

A hierarchical network (or a tree network) resembles a star network in that several computers are connected to a central host computer (usually a mainframe). However, these "client" computers also serve as host computers to next level units. Thus, the hierarchical network can theoretically be compared to a standard organizational chart or a large corporation. Typically, the host computer at the top of the hierarchy is a mainframe computer. Lower levels in the hierarchy could consist of minicomputers and microcomputers. It should be noted that a system can sometimes have characteristics of more than one of the above topologies. is created similar to an extended star but instead of linking the hubs/ switches together, the system is linked to a computer that controls the traffic on the topology

Advantages of Tree Topology

1. 2. 3. 4. It is most suitable for large networks where ring and star topologies are not efficient. Since it divides the network in sub-parts, so it becomes more manageable There is no hassle in either expanding or removing the nodes. For individual segments there is dedicated line wiring to the local hub.

Disadvantages of Tree Topology

1. The network is vulnerable as it is wholly dependent on the central hub. 2. If the network becomes extremely large it becomes difficult to manage.