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Introduction to Networks

Types of Computer Network Topologies: Bus,Star, Ring Topology

What is a Network topology

A topology is the characteristic of a communication network that is concern bothwith the physical configuration of the cabling that is used to inter connectcommunicating system and the logical way in which system view the structure of thenetwork. Topology is the therefore physical or logical arrangement of computers

Factors to consider when selecting a topology

1. Cost whatever transmission medium is chosen for a Local Area Network hasto be physically installed in the building, this maybe a lengthy process including

the installation cables and raceways. For a Network to be cost effective onewould strive to minimize installation cost. This may be achieved by using theproper hardware linking the cables, good modems, cost effective computers toreduced cost

2. Flexibility one of the main benefit of a local Area Network is it ability to havethe data processing and peripheral nodes distributed around a given area. Thismeans that the computing power and equipment can be located close to theultimate users. Because the arrangements of furniture, internal walls etc in theoffices is often subject to change. The topology should allow for easyreconstruction of the network which involves moving existing nodes and addingnew nodes

3. Reliability The topology chosen for the network can help by allowing thelocation of the fault to be detected and to provide some means of isolating thefaults

Diagramatic explanation of star topology

Types of Network Topologies

Network star topology also known as Radial topology

This topology consist of a central nodes to which all other nodes are connected, startopology is used in most existing information network involving data processing and

voice communication. In many cases when a building is wired with a star topology,faced cables radiate out from the centre to intermediate connection point to wiring

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cables. This allows sufficient connection point to be provided for one sub area,while providing flexibility in their allocation within that area

Advantages of star topology

Diagnostic and isolation of problem is easy

Easy to add a new computer system to the network

Failure of one workstation does not affect the entire network

Uses a single access protocols

Provide ease of service

Is very fast

Disadvantages of star topology

There is central node dependency

Becomes expensive when purchasing the nodes

Always requires very long cable length when connecting many nodes