Network topology refers to the arrangement of different elements (links, nodes, etc.) in a computer network. It is a crucial concept in network design and can significantly impact the performance, scalability, and fault tolerance of the network.

1. Node: Any device connected to the network (e.g., computers, printers, switches).
2. Link: The physical or logical connection between nodes.
3. Topology: The structure or layout of the network.

• Description: All nodes are connected to a single central cable, called the bus.

• Advantages:

  • Easy to implement and extend.
  • Requires less cable length than some other topologies.

• Disadvantages:

  • Limited cable length and number of nodes.
  • If the central cable fails, the entire network goes down.

• Diagram:

  [Node]---[Node]---[Node]---[Node]
  

• Description: All nodes are connected to a central hub or switch.

• Advantages:

  • Easy to install and manage.
  • Failure of one node does not affect the rest of the network.

• Disadvantages:

  • If the central hub fails, the entire network goes down.
  • Requires more cable than bus topology.

• Diagram:

         [Node]
           |
  [Node]--[Hub]--[Node]
           |
         [Node]
  

• Description: Each node is connected to exactly two other nodes, forming a circular pathway for signals.

• Advantages:

  • Data packets travel at high speed.
  • No collisions because data flows in one direction.

• Disadvantages:

  • A failure in any cable or device breaks the loop and can take down the entire network.

• Diagram:

  [Node]---[Node]---[Node]
    |                 |
  [Node]---[Node]---[Node]
  

• Description: Every node is connected to every other node.

• Advantages:

  • High fault tolerance.
  • Data can be transmitted simultaneously from different devices.

• Disadvantages:

  • Expensive due to the high number of cables and ports required.
  • Complex installation and configuration.

• Diagram:

  [Node]---[Node]
    | \     / |
    |  \   /  |
  [Node]---[Node]
  

• Description: A hybrid topology that combines characteristics of star and bus topologies. Nodes are connected in a hierarchical manner.

• Advantages:

  • Scalable and easy to manage.
  • Fault isolation is easier.

• Disadvantages:

  • If the backbone line breaks, the entire network segment goes down.

• Diagram:

         [Root Node]
           /   
        [Node]   [Node]
       / \       / 
    [Node] [Node] [Node] [Node]
  

• Description: A combination of two or more different types of topologies.
• Advantages:
  • Flexible and scalable.
  • Can be designed to meet specific needs.
• Disadvantages:
  • Complex design and implementation.
  • Can be expensive.
• Diagram: Varies based on the combination of topologies used.

Objective: Connect four computers in a star topology using a switch.

Materials Needed:

• 4 Computers
• 1 Switch
• 4 Ethernet Cables

Steps:

1. Place the switch in a central location.
2. Connect one end of each Ethernet cable to the network port on each computer.
3. Connect the other end of each Ethernet cable to the switch.
4. Power on the switch and the computers.
5. Configure the network settings on each computer to ensure they are on the same network.

Diagram:

Question: Given the following network diagram, identify the topology used.

Answer: The topology used is a Ring Topology.

Question: List two advantages and two disadvantages of a mesh topology.

Answer:

• Advantages:
  1. High fault tolerance.
  2. Data can be transmitted simultaneously from different devices.
• Disadvantages:
  1. Expensive due to the high number of cables and ports required.
  2. Complex installation and configuration.

Understanding network topologies is essential for designing efficient and reliable networks. Each topology has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it suitable for different scenarios. By mastering these concepts, you can make informed decisions about the best topology for your network needs.