To understand what exactly network topologies are; first we need to understand the meaning of the term “network”. The term “network” refers to a series of nodes or points (computers) connected to each other by means of communication paths or some type of interface, where, like in a network, the term “topology” refers to the arrangement of these nodes in a network or in other words describes the arrangement of these nodes. connected devices.
There are five basic types of network topologies:
- Net
- Star
- Call
- Bus
- Tree
GRID TOPOLOGY:
A mesh network is one where each node is linked together to form a point-to-point connection. The mesh topology is based on the concept of routes, which means that information sent from a source on the network can take different paths to reach its destination.
STAR TOPOLOGY:
The arrangement of nodes in a network using a star topology is such that each node is connected to one central point (hub, router or switch). The Central Point (hub) receives data from the sending computer and delivers it to the appropriate destination. This type of topology is the most expensive as it requires a longer cable length, and if the central point fails, all attached nodes will be disabled.
RING TOPOLOGY:
A ring-based network is one in which the computers are connected in a closed loop, one cable connects the first computer to the other, the second cable connects the second computer to the third, and so on. Each node has a unique address, all information travels through the ring in one specific direction (clockwise or counterclockwise).
BUS TOPOLOGY:
In a network where all computers are connected to a single cable, this type of network is said to use a bus topology. Computers connected to the bus network coordinate to ensure that only one computer is sending information at any time. Both ends of the network must have terminators, the entire network is down in the event of a cable failure.
TREE TOPOLOGY:
The tree topology is commonly known as the “extended star” topology. It is a combination of bus and star topology. In these types of networks, a group of stations or nodes connected to each other in a star topology are connected to one main line bus cable. This type of layout is difficult to set up, and if the line bus fails, the entire network will stop working.
There is another type of network topology known as a hybrid topology. A hybrid topology is simply a combination of different topology types such as star, ring, bus, mesh, etc. All networks that use different topology types are connected to one central point (hub). Hybrid topology is a reliable and flexible and efficient form of topology.
