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Network Topologies Abstract: Network system has made spectacular progress recently. Numerous superior network topologies are available to develop network architecture based on a range of performance characteristics. The present paper explains the general network topologies, their devices, components, advantages and disadvantages. Introduction: The phrase topology in networking denotes to the layout of connected devices on a network.
A topology is considered as a virtual shape or structure of network. This shape does not essentially correspond to the real physical layout of the devices on the network. General network topologies: General network topologies are classified into the following basic types: Bus, ring, star (Dooley, 2001). Bus: Bus networks utilize a common backbone to join all devices. In this network topology, a set of clients are connected through a shared communications line, called a bus. A device that wants to communicate with another device on the network sends a broadcast message onto the wire that all other devices see, but only the intended receiver in fact accepts and processes the message.
General instances of the bus architecture are one in the motherboard of most computers, and those in some versions of Ethernet networks. In bus topology, network is maintained by a single cable. Cable segment must end with a terminator. It uses thin coaxial cable. Extra stations can be added in a daisy chain manner (Dooley, 2001). The major disadvantages of bus topology are limited cable length and number of stations.
The whole network collapses when there is a problem with the cable. Maintenance is costly in the long run. Performance slows down when extra computers are added or on heavy traffic. Proper termination is also important. Ring: In a ring network, each of the nodes of the network is connected to two other nodes in the network and with the first and last nodes being connected to each other, forming a ring so that all data that is broadcasted between nodes in the network travels from one node to the next node. Each device must have to stay for its turn to send out (Tanenbaum, 1996).
Ring topology is more reliable and has several benefits. Data packets travel at great speed in this type of topology. There is no collision, easier to find fault and no terminators are required. The requirement of more cable in ring than a bus is the main drawback of ring topology.
Star: A star topology is planned with each node that includes main server, workstations, and peripherals, connected directly to a central network hub or concentrator or routers. Data on a star network passes through the hub before ongoing to its target. The hub or router directs and controls all functions of the network. It also acts as a repeater for the data flow. This arrangement is ordinary with twisted pair cable but it can also be used with coaxial cable or fiber optic cable (Groth, 2005). Advantages of star topology are that it is simple to establish and wire, no interruptions to the network when connecting or removing devices and easy to identify faults and to take out parts.
The negative aspect of star topology is the requirement of more cable length than a linear topology. It is more costly than linear bus topologies because of the cost of the concentrators. It is preferred to use for connecting larger and distant nodes in the network. Conclusion: Topologies are a significant part of network design speculation. One can select a best suited topology and its components and devices depending on its requirement and need. References: 1) Groth, David; Toby Skandier (2005). 'Network+ Study Guide, Fourth Edition'.
Sybex, Inc. 2) Tanenbaum Andrew S. 1996. Computer Networks. Prentice hall of India private limited. second edition. 3) Dooley Kevin. 2001.
Designing Large Scale Lans. First Edition. Chapter: 3. Outline Network Topologies Introduction: Network topologies make possible network performance and configuration. General network topologies: Bus In bus topology, a single cable, functions as a common communication medium that devices attach into with an interface connector. -Components- -Devices- -Arrangement of components and devices- -Pros & Cons- Ring In a ring network, each device has exactly two neighbors for communication functions. -Components -Devices -Arrangement of components and devices -Pros &Cons Star In star topology, each device needs its own cable to the Hub. -Components -Devices -Arrangement of components and devices -Pros &Cons Conclusion: Topologies play vital function in networking.
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