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Computer network topology is the way various components of a network (like nodes, links, peripherals, etc) are arranged. Network topologies define the layout, virtual shape or structure of network, not only physically but also logically. The way in which different systems and nodes are connected and communicate with each other is determined by topology of the network. Topology can be physical or logical. Physical Topology is the physical layout of nodes, workstations and cables in the network; while logical topology is the way information flows between different components. In general, physical topology relates to a core network whereas logical topology relates to basic network.
Types of Physical Network Topologies
1)
Bus Topology 2) Star Topology 3) Ring Topology 4) Mesh Topology 5) Tree Topology 6) Hybrid Topology
intended recipient, whose IP address matches, accepts it. If the IP address of machine doesnt match with the intended address, machine discards the signal.
A terminator is added at ends of the central cable, to prevent bouncing of signals. A barrel connector can be used to extend it. Below given a basic diagram of a bus topology and then h discussed advantages and disadvantages of Bus Network Topology
Token Passing (in brief) : Token contains a piece of information which along
with data is sent by the source computer. This token then passes to next node, which checks if the signal is intended to it. If yes, it receives it and passes the empty to into the network, otherwise passes token along with the data to next node. This process continues until the signal reaches its intended destination. The nodes with token are the ones only allowed to send data. Other nodes have to wait
for an empty token to reach them. This network is usually found in offices, schools and small buildings.
when it receives an empty token. This helps to reduces chances of collision. Also in ring topology all the traffic flows in only one direction at very high speed. 2) Even when the load on the network increases, its performance is better than that of Bus topology. 3) There is no need for network server to control the connectivity between workstations. 4) Additional components do not affect the performance of network. 5) Each computer has equal access to resources.
destination. This makes it slower than Star topology. 2) If one workstation or port goes down, the entire network gets affected. 3) Network is highly dependent on the wire which connects different components. 4) MAUs and network cards are expensive as compared to Ethernet cards and hubs.
In a mesh network topology, 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.
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.
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.
Tree Topology integrates the characteristics of Star and Bus Topology. Earlier we saw how in Physical Star network Topology, computers (nodes) are connected by each other through central hub. And we also saw in Bus Topology, work station devices are connected by the common cable called Bus. After understanding these two network configurations, we can understand tree topology better. In Tree Topology, the number of Star networks are connected using Bus. This main cable seems like a main stem of a tree, and other star networks as the branches. It is also called Expanded Star Topology. Ethernet protocol is commonly used in this type of topology. The diagram below will make it clear.
Tree Topology
can't be implemented individually for reasons related to scalability, tree topology is the best alternative. 2. Expansion of Network is possible and easy. 3. Here, we divide the whole network into segments (star networks), which can be easily managed and maintained. 4. Error detection and correction is easy. 5. Each segment is provided with dedicated point-to-point wiring to the central hub. 6. If one segment is damaged, other segments are not affected.
breaks whole network is crippled. 2. As more and more nodes and segments are added, the maintenance becomes difficult. 3. Scalability of the network depends on the type of cable used.
Hybrid, as the name suggests, is mixture of two different things. Similarly in this type of topology we integrate two or more different topologies to form a resultant topology which has good points(as well as weaknesses) of all the constituent basic topologies rather than having characteristics of one specific topology. This combination of topologies is done according to the requirements of the organization. For example, if there exists a ring topology in one office department while a bus topology in another department, connecting these two will result in Hybrid topology. Remember connecting two similar topologies cannot be termed as Hybrid topology. Star-Ring and Star-Bus networks are most common examples of hybrid network. Let's see the benefits and drawbacks of this networking architecture
type of topology. The part in which fault is detected can be isolated from the rest of network and required corrective measures can be taken, WITHOUT affecting the functioning of rest of the network. 2) Scalable: Its easy to increase the size of network by adding new components, without disturbing existing architecture. 3) Flexible: Hybrid Network can be designed according to the requirements of the organization and by optimizing the available resources. Special care can be given to
nodes where traffic is high as well as where chances of fault are high. 4) Effective: Hybrid topology is the combination of two or more topologies, so we can design it in such a way that strengths of constituent topologies are maximized while there weaknesses are neutralized. For example we saw Ring Topology has good data reliability (achieved by use of tokens) and Star topology has high tolerance capability (as each node is not directly connected to other but through central device), so these two can be used effectively in hybrid star-ring topology.
A computer server is the powerful computer, or the set of computers connected to each other, which provide services to other systems. They usually have database integrated in them, and are very powerful machines with very advanced configuration. They process the requests of client machines. Their role is to make management of network easy and uniform.
Features of Servers :1) They have large storage capacity.
2) They are able to provide information to many computers simultaneously, therefore have large RAM. 3) Its processor speed is high, as it may have to execute multi-tasking too.
What are clients in client-server model?
Clients are the individual components which are connected in a network. They have a basic configuration. Client sends a request/query to server and server responds accordingly. Please note that the client doesn't share any of its resources. They are subordinates to servers, and their access rights are defined by servers only. They have localized databases.
2) Servers. 3) Network Devices :- They connect the clients and servers, and at the same time ensure proper collision free routing of information. 4) Other components like scanner,printer, etc can also be connected to network architecture.