abhishekashyap / computer-network-topologies

Computer Networks

Topology

Network topology is the arrangement of the elements of a communication network. Network topology can be used to define or describe the arrangement of various types of telecommunication networks.

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1. Bus topology

In bus topology, every computer and network device is connected to a single cable. It has unidirectional transmission of data.

Advantages

• Easy to expand
• Favourable for small networks
• It is cost effective since only single cable is required (known as backbone)

Disadvantages

• If the cable fails, whole network will fail
• Cable has limited length
• If network traffic is high or nodes are more, the network performance tends to decrease (To avoid this various protocols are used, like Pure Aloha)

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2. Ring topology

In ring topology, connecting devices form a ring as each device has exactly two neighbouring devices.

Advantages

• Cheap to install and expand
• Possibility of collision is minimum i.e. network is not affected by adding more nodes

Disadvantages

• Troubleshooting is difficult
• Addition or removal of devices disturbs the whole network

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3. Mesh topology

In mesh topology, each computer on the network connects to every other device via particular channel.

Advantages

• It is robust
• Each connection can carry its own data
• Provides security and privacy

Disadvantages

• Installation and configuration is difficult
• More wires are required, hence higher cabling cost
• High maintenance cost