Topology, What is Topology, Network Topology, Physical Topology, Definition of Topology, Types of Topology, Importance of Topology
Do you know What is Topology? It refers to the structure or shape of a network, that is how the components of the network such as nodes are connected with each other and establish their communication with each other. The word topology is actually derived from two Greek words topo and logy where topo means place and logy means study. On the other hand, if you understand according to the computer network, then a topology shows us how a network is physically connected and how the logical flow of information takes place in those networks. A topology mainly describe how devices are connected and interact with each other using communication links. Then let’s know about What is topology and its different types and all the important information related to it.
What is Network Topology?
Network topology defines the layout, virtual shape or structure of a network not only physically but also logically. A network can have one physical and more than one logical topology at the same time.
What do you understand by Topology?
The way computers are connected to each other is called network topology. The method of connecting computers and data flow in it, is called to topology.
Types of Network Topology
1. Physical
Physical topology refers to how computers or nodes are connected to each other in in a computer network. It is the arrangement of various elements (links, nodes etc.) including device location and could installation of in computer network. In other words, we can say that it is the physical layout of the nodes, workstations and cables in the network. (Utility Software)
2. Logical
A logical topology describes the weight data flows from one computer to another. It is bound to a network protocol and defines how data is transferred across the network and which path it takes. In other words, it is the way the devices communicate internally.
Types of Physical Topology
Here now we will learn about different types of Physical Topology. By the way, for your information, let me tell you that there are mainly of 6 types.
1. Bus
2. Ring
3. Star
4. Mesh
5. Tree
6. Hybrid
1. Bus
In bus topology, all the network nodes and computers are connected to the same cable in the same order in the form of a queue.
2. Ring
In ring topology, all the computers are connected in a circular structures. So they all depend on each other when connected with each other.
3. Star
In star topology, there is a host computer, which connects to different computers and controls them.
4. Mesh
In mesh topology, each network node connects to another network somewhere and forms mesh like a structure, due to which it is also called.
5. Tree
The structure of tree topology is a mixed structure, in which the characteristics of both star topology and bus topology are found. In this, like start topology, there is a main host computer and like bus topology, all the local computers are connected to the same cable in a certain order are connected.
6. Hybrid
Hybrid topology means exactly as per its name in which two or more different types of topologies are combined to form a mixed topology.
Importance of Network Topology
1. It plays a very important role in the proper functioning of the network.
2. It helps us to understand networking concept better.
3. It is able to reduce operational and maintenance cost.
4. A network topology is one factor in determining the media type used for cableing and network.
5. Error or fault detection becomes easier by using network topology.
6. Through this, proper and effective use of resources and networking components is possible.
Which Topology is best for the network?
In this way, any network topology is not the best buy itself. It depends on the location and the size of the network that you can use there. Let us know about something that you must know if you are choosing an network topology.
Cable Length
Cable Type
Price
Scalability
1. Cable Length
It is often seen that the more cables are used in a network topology, the more work and cost it takes to set up it. Therefore while bus and start topologies are very simple and light weight, mesh network are more complex.
2. Cable Type
Now you have to choose the type of cable that you want to install. Twisted- pair cables are most cost-effective, but they have less bandwidth then coaxial cables at the same time fibre optic cables. At the same time, fibre-optic are very high performing and can transfer data faster but they are more expensive. In this case you should choose the type of cable according to your need and budget.
3. Cost
Now it comes to cost, if you use complex network topology and also with costly cables then you may have to pay a lot in the process. In such a situation, you have to decide which topology is right for you according to your needs and budget, which will give you proper performance.
4. Scalability
Now it comes to scalability, where did you have to decide that whatever network topology you choose is suitable for your company. That is, if you want, you can scale the network using the network topology or not. Means how easily you can change things. For example, in a ring network you have to take the entire network offline to make changes to any of the nodes whereas in star topology this is much easier.
Each of the topologies is discussed above has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, the key to building and configuring the right networking order is subjective. It is very important for any company to gather all the requirements and needs before adopting a particular network topology.
Which is the best Topology?
The best topology is start topology. This connects all devices and computers to a central host, also known as host note. Which is connected to the fibre optic cable of twisted paper, coaxial, cable and it acts like a server, and whatever information has to be given, it shares with this network.
Which is the most expensive topology?
Hybrid Topology is the most expensive network topology.
FAQ
1. Which Topology is considered the best?
Ans. Full mesh topology has been considered the best. Well it also depends on your network and budget.
2. Which Topology transfer data the fastest?
Ans. Data is transferred fastest is star topology.
3. Which Topology is the cheapest?
Ans. Bus topology is the cheapest.
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