What is network topology?

The network topology refers to the way in which the end points or stations of network are linked together. It determines the data paths that may be used between any pair of the station of the network configuration. It is the arrangement of computers attached with each other in a network.

Types of topologies :

Star Topology :-  It is a local area network. In this topology all the computers (nodes) are directly connected to a hub or switch. Star topology is most commonly used. In this, a central network device or a hub that acts as a server and all other computers are directly connected to this hub or switch. In this topology, if there is any problem in the hub or switch, then the entire network gets spread, but if there is any problem in any local computer (node) then there is no effect on its network. . In this topology, all the computers (nodes) are not directly connected to each other but are indirectly connected with the help of a hub or switch.

• With the help of this topology, the network can be easily scaled up.
• When any computer is spread in this network, then it does not cause any problem in the whole network.
• This type of network is also very easy to set up.
• The cost of installing this topology is high.
• If only the hub or switch gets damaged in it, then its entire network fails.
• Every computer has a main device which is called hub or switch. Due to this hub or switch, all the computers are able to work.

Ring Topology :-  In the ring topology, the computers on the network form a logical ring. The ring represent a cable which connects all the computers. It may be noted that the ring is logical, in the sense that the first computer connects to the second one by cable, second to third and so on. The last computer in the network connect to the first one by cable, thereby forming a logical ring.

There is no host, main or controlling computer inside the ring topology. In this, a computer is connected to two nearby computers. Each computer has two NICs (Network Interface Cards). In ring topology, data flows in only one direction.

When data has to be sent from one computer to another in this network, then it cannot be sent directly. The first sending computer sends the data to its next computer and that computer checks the data whether this data is for it or not and if it is not for it then this computer sends the data to its next computer and this process then This continues until the correct computer gets this data.

1. Bus Topology.
2. Mesh Topology or completely connected network.
3. Hybrid Network.