Computer Seminar 24-25

Introduction to
Network
Topologies
Network topology describes the arrangement of network
devices. This arrangement determines how data flows through
the network.
by Mahara Subhash D
Definition of Network Topology
Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of computers and other network devices. It
defines how these devices are connected to each other and how data is transmitted between them.
1 Physical Topology 2 Logical Topology

The physical arrangement of cables, hubs, and The way data travels between devices on the network.
other hardware.
One-on-One Linkage
One-on-one linkage is a simple network topology where two devices are
directly connected via a single cable. It's the most basic form of network
connection.
Point-to-Point Connection
A direct connection between two devices.
Dedicated Link
The link is dedicated to these two devices only.
High Bandwidth
Direct connections offer high bandwidth, meaning data travels fast
Star Topology: Advantages and
Disadvantages
In a star topology, all devices connect to a central hub. Data flows through the hub to reach other devices.
This makes it a popular choice for home and small office networks.
Advantages Disadvantages
Easy to manage and troubleshoot. If the hub fails, the entire network goes down.
Centralized control simplifies network administration. More expensive than bus topology due to the need
for a central hub.
Adding or removing devices is straightforward.
Not as scalable as mesh topologies.
Bus Topology: Advantages and
Disadvantages
In a bus topology, all devices share a single cable. Data travels along the cable, broadcast to all devices. It's
a simple and cost-effective solution but has limitations in size and performance.
Cost-effective, using a single cable. Data collisions can occur when multiple devices
send data simultaneously.
Easy to install and expand compared to star topologies.
Difficult to troubleshoot, as all devices share the same cable
Simple cabling infrastructure reduces complexity.
If the cable fails, the entire network goes down.
Tree Topology: Advantages and
Disadvantages
A tree topology is a hierarchical network where devices connect to a central hub, similar to a star topology.
However, multiple hubs can be connected to form branches, creating a tree-like structure. This allows for
scalability and can be used in larger networks.
Scalable structure allows for growth without Requires more cabling than bus topology.
impacting the entire network.
Failure of a hub can affect multiple branches of the network
Easy to manage and isolate problems, as each
Can be complex to configure and troubleshoot.
branch is self-contained.
Provides a more organized network structure.

Ring Topology
In a ring topology, devices connect in a closed loop. Data flows in one
direction around the ring, passing through each device until it
reaches its destination. It's less common than other topologies but
has its own set of advantages.
High bandwidth and speed Single point of failure, if one

compared to bus topology. device fails, the entire
network is disrupted.
Efficient data transmission Difficult to add or remove

with minimal collisions. devices without interrupting
the network.
Suitable for real-time Requires specialized cabling
applications requiring reliable and hardware.
data transfer.
Mesh Topology
A mesh topology is a highly interconnected network where each device connects to
multiple other devices. This creates redundant paths for data transmission, making
it very reliable.
Highly reliable, as data can be routed through multiple paths.

Complex to set up and manage due to the high
number of connections.
Resilient to failures, as the loss of one connection
doesn't affect the network. Expensive to implement as it requires more cabling
and devices.
Ideal for networks requiring high availability and security.
Can be challenging to troubleshoot due to the
multiple interconnections.
Hybrid Topology
A hybrid topology combines elements of multiple topologies to create a network with the best features of each. This
allows for flexibility and scalability, adapting to specific network needs.
Star-Bus Hybrid Tree-Ring Hybrid Mesh-Star Hybrid

Combines the centralized control of a Combines the hierarchical structure Combines the high reliability of a
star topology with the simplicity of a of a tree topology with the high mesh topology with the ease of
bus topology. bandwidth of a ring topology. management of a star topology.
Conclusion and Future Trends
Network topology is a crucial aspect of network design. Choosing the right topology depends on factors like
size, budget, and security requirements. Future trends include software-defined networking (SDN), which
allows for flexible and dynamic network management.
1 SDN
Software-defined networking allows for dynamic network configuration and control.
2 Cloud Networking
Cloud-based solutions offer scalability and flexibility, moving away from traditional infrastructure.
Be the change,
That you wish
3 5G and Beyond
Emerging technologies will further improve network performance and connectivity
to see in this world.
, driving new advancements in network design.

Computer Seminar 24-25

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Introduction to

1 Physical Topology 2 Logical Topology

Provides a more organized network structure.

High bandwidth and speed Single point of failure, if one

Efficient data transmission Difficult to add or remove

Highly reliable, as data can be routed through multiple paths.

Star-Bus Hybrid Tree-Ring Hybrid Mesh-Star Hybrid

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