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Questions and Answers
What is a major challenge in managing and troubleshooting hybrid topologies?
What is the primary advantage of using a hybrid topology?
What is a characteristic of hybrid topologies?
What is a potential disadvantage of using a hybrid topology?
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In what type of networks are hybrid topologies often used?
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What is a benefit of using a hybrid topology in terms of fault tolerance?
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What is a key feature of hybrid topology design?
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What is a potential drawback of using a hybrid topology in terms of cost?
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What is the main reason why hybrid topologies are used in large networks?
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What is a characteristic of hybrid topologies in terms of network design?
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Study Notes
Network Topology
- Network topology defines physical/logical arrangement of devices and connections within a computer network.
- Determines data transmission paths and overall structural framework of the network.
Types of Network Topology
- Bus Topology: All devices connect to a single backbone cable ("bus"). Suitable for small networks.
- Ring Topology: Devices connected in a circular layout where each device is connected to two others.
- Dual Ring Topology: Similar to ring but includes a second ring for backup, enhancing fault tolerance.
- Star Topology: Each device is connected to a central hub/switch, facilitating centralized management.
- Tree Topology: Hierarchically arranged with a central root node connected to secondary nodes, combining bus and star features.
- Mesh Topology: Every device connects to every other, providing high redundancy and alternative routing paths.
- Hybrid Topology: Combination of different topologies to leverage strengths.
Bus Topology
- Definition: Devices connect to a single backbone cable.
- Working: Signals travel bidirectionally; unaddressed devices ignore signals.
- Applications: Common in early Ethernet and small setups like classrooms.
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Characteristics:
- Simple setup with less cabling.
- Expands easily by adding devices.
- Advantages: Easy installation and cost-effective for small networks.
- Disadvantages: Limited scalability can degrade performance with more devices.
Ring Topology
- Definition: Devices connected in a closed loop, transmitting data in one direction.
- Working: Each device passes data to the next until it reaches the destination.
- Applications: Used in network environments requiring reliable communication.
- Characteristics: Simple, predictable data transmission.
- Advantages: Efficient in managing data flow, can be effective in a limited space.
- Disadvantages: A single failure can disrupt the whole network.
Double Ring Topology
- Applications: Utilized in critical networks needing high availability like telecommunications.
- Characteristics: Redundant path for each connection, enhances reliability.
- Advantages: High fault tolerance minimizes downtime; ensures continuous operation.
- Disadvantages: Higher costs due to extra infrastructure; management complexity and limited scalability.
Star Topology
- Definition: Devices connected through individual cables to a central hub/switch.
- Working: Data from one device must pass through the hub to reach other devices.
- Applications: Widely used in LANs and WLANs.
- Characteristics: Centralized management enhances control.
- Advantages: Fault isolation protects rest of the network; high performance due to traffic management by hub.
- Disadvantages: Hub failure can collapse the network; greater cost due to cabling.
Tree Topology
- Definition: Hierarchical structure that connects devices in a branched manner.
- Working: Central root node connects to secondary nodes, which can further connect to additional nodes.
- Applications: Common in WANs and corporate networks.
- Characteristics: Scalable and flexible design for large networks.
- Advantages: Supports expansion without affecting the entire structure; centralized management improves efficiency.
- Disadvantages: Root node dependency can disrupt communication; complex maintenance and more cabling required.
Mesh Topology
- Definition: Full interconnectivity where devices link to every other device in the network.
- Working: Data can take multiple routes; provides robust fault tolerance.
- Applications: Key in mission-critical environments such as military and finance.
- Characteristics: High redundancy and scalability.
- Advantages: Reliable communication with alternative paths; easy addition of devices.
- Disadvantages: Requires extensive cabling and increased costs due to complexity.
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Description
Test your understanding of network topology, including the physical and logical layout of devices, connections, and nodes in a computer network. Learn about the different types of network topology, including bus, ring, and dual ring topology.
