COMPUTER EDUCATION 10: What are the Types of Network Topologies?

What is a Network Topology?

Network Topology is the schematic description of a network arrangement, connecting various nodes(sender and receiver) through lines of connection.

In this arrangement computers and devices are connected to a single linear cable called a trunk. The trunk is also referred to as the backbone or a segment. Each end of the trunk must be discharged to prevent the signal from rebounding back up the cable.

All computers and devices are connected to a main hub or switch. The hub or switch amasses and disburses the flow of data within the network. Star topology is the most common type of network and follows the Ethernet standard.

Computers and devices are connected to a closed loop cable. Here there are no terminating ends so if one system crashes the entire network goes down. Each computer functions as a repeater and charges the signal before sending it to the next station.
In Ring topology data is sent through the network by way of a token. If the token isn’t carrying any data, a computer waiting to send data seizes it, attaches the data and the electronic address to the token and sends it on. Once the token is received by the destination computer it strips the data and the token is sent on. This is why it’s named a token ring network.

Is a type of networking where all nodes cooperate to distribute data amongst each other. This topology was originally developed 30+ years ago for military applications, but today, they are typically used for things like home automation, smart HVAC control, and smart buildings. Within this article, we’ll provide a general overview of how mesh topology works, the benefits and considerations associated with mesh networks, industry standards, and alternatives.

Is an interconnection of two or more basic network topologies, each of which contains its own nodes. The resulting interconnection allows the nodes in a given basic topology to communicate with other nodes in the same basic topology as well as those in other basic topologies within the hybrid topology. Advantages of a hybrid network includes increased flexibility as new basic topologies can easily be added or existing ones removed and increased fault tolerance.