Networking Topologies

 We have previously explained that there are many computing devices connected in a Local Area Network (LAN), and connectivity between millions of LANs comprise the Internet. The topology refers to the interconnection of computers and other peripherals in a network. Some usual network topologies include Mesh, Ring, Bus, Star and Tree.

Mesh Topology

In this network topology, every communicating device is linked to every other device in the network. This kind of network can manage large amounts of traffic because several nodes are able to send data at a time. Moreover, these networks are more robust in the manner that even if one node gets down, it does not create any interruption in the transmission of data among other nodes. This topology is also safer compared to other topologies since every cable between any two nodes has different information. But there is intricate wiring and expensive cabling cost in developing such networks and there are plenty of redundant or unused connections.

Figure- Mesh Topology

Ring Topology 

Ring Topology is a networking arrangement in which every device (node) has two devices that it is attached to, resulting in a looped data pathway. Data goes around the circle in a single direction (or occasionally bidirectional) until reaching its destination. This is one of the types of networks commonly found in Token Ring networks, where a designated data packet named a "token" moves through the network and gives access permission to send data.

Bus Topology

Bus topology is a configuration of the network in which all devices are attached to a single backbone cable, called the bus or backbone. Data transmitted by any device follows this cable and reaches all other devices, but only the recipient device accepts and interprets it.

• Devices are wired in series to a single channel of communication (the bus).
• Terminators are used at each end of the bus to stop signal reflection.
• One device can send at a time; if two send simultaneously, a collision occurs.

Figure- Bus Topology

Star Topology

Star topology is a networking arrangement where everything is connected to a center hub, switch, or router. Every device will have its own single cable that connects it to the center.

So, rather than devices being connected to one another, they all talk to each other via the central device.

• The central hub gets data from one device and sends it on to the recipient.
• If the hub is a switch, it will forward data to only the correct device.
• If it's only a hub, it will send data to all devices (inefficient).

Figure- Star Topology

 Tree or Hybrid Topology

It is a hierarchical topology, where there are several branches and one branch can contain one or more basic topologies such as star, ring and bus. These topologies are typically implemented in WANs where several LANs are interconnected. These LANs can be in the shape of a ring, bus or star.  A hybrid topology is illustrated interconnecting 4-star topologies in a bus. In this kind of network, data sent from source first reaches the centralised device and from there the data flows through each branch where each branch may have links for additional nodes.

Figure- Hybrid Topology