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Define Network Topology. Explain its types.
Network Topology
There are many ways in which computers can be connected together in a computer network. The way in which nodes are connected in a network is called network topology.
Types of Network Topologies:
The most important and commonly used network topologies are as follows:
- Bus Topology
- Star Topology
- Ring Topology
- Mesh Topology
- Tree Topology
Bus topology.
In Bus topology, all nodes are connected to a common communication medium. Usually, a central cable is used as communication medium known as Bus. The computers are connected to the Bus through interface connector. The ends of bus are closed with terminators. A terminator is a special resistor device that absorbs data signals. Bus topology is suitable for small networks.
Compare the features of BUS and STAR topologies.
Bus Topology
- In Bus topology, all nodes are connected to a common communication medium, usually to a central cable called Bus.
- The nodes are connected to the bus through interface connector.
- In Bus network, the sending computer sends the data and destination address through the Bus.
- The data and address move from one to other computer until it reaches the destination computer.
Star Topology
- . In Star topology, all nodes are directly connected to a central device, called Hub/Switch. A large network may consist of many hubs.
- The nodes are connected to each hub. All the hubs in network are connected to each other.
- In Star topology, the sending computer sends data to the hub.
- The hub sends data to the receiving computer.