Different types of Topologys

Physical topology's :

1. BUS  Topology
2. STAR  Topology
3. TREE Topology
4. RING  Topology
5. MESH Topology

Bus topology:

  In bus topology all computers attached to a single continues cable that is terminated at both ends 

• A “ T ” connector is inserted in the main cable whenever a station need to connect 
• To avoid the loops and to generating signals we will use terminators at both ends of the cable

Advantages: Easy to install, low cost.

Disadvantages: If any small problem is occurred in the n/w whole n/w will be effect.

                           Bandwidth is shared hence it is low speed.

Star topology:

 Each computer in star topology is connected to a central device the central device may be a hub, switch, or an access point.

Advantages:

1. We can add new stations (pc, printers) easily.

2. If any fault occurs then whole network will not effect. Unless until the central device fail.

Disadvantages:

1. Total install cost can be higher becose of large number of cables.

2. It has signal point of failure (central device)

Ring topology:

In the ring topology each computer is connected directly to the two other computers in the n/ws

Data moves down a one way path from one computer to other

 

Advantages:

1.  It is east to troubleshoot
2.  A station will know when a cable

Disadvantages:

1. It is very expensive, because of multiple NIC card
2. Difficult to reconfig
3. Not fault tolerant

Tree topology:

A tree topology combines characteristics of linear bus and star topologies. It consists of groups of star-configured workstations connected to a linear bus backbone cable (See fig. 4). Tree topologies allow for the expansion of an existing network, and enable schools to configure a network to meet their needs. 

Advantages

• Point-to-point wiring for individual segments.
• Supported by several hardware and software venders.

Disadvantages

• Overall length of each segment is limited by the type of cabling used.
• If the backbone line breaks, the entire segment goes down.
• More difficult to configure and wire than other topologies.

Mesh topology:

In mesh topology, a path exists from each station to every other station in the network. Resulting in the most physical connections per node of any topology

Advantages:

Fault tolerance is there.

Disadvantages:

Costly for implementation

Note: For selecting the right topology for our organisation depends upon

1. Cost

2. Ease of installation

3. Ease of maintenance

4. Cable fault tolerance