What is a Network Topology?
Network Topology: Types, Diagrams, and Definition
Contents
- Network Topology Definition: Network topology is defined as the arrangement of nodes and connections in a communication network.
- Types of Network Topologies: The main types of network topologies are bus, star, mesh, and ring, with hybrids being combinations of these.
- Bus Topology: Uses a single backbone cable for connections; best for small networks but performance declines with more devices.
- Star Topology: Connects each device to a central hub; easy to manage and troubleshoot, but reliant on the hub’s functionality.
- Basic Network Topology of Power System: Understanding the basic network topology of power systems helps in designing efficient and reliable electrical networks.
What is a Network Topology?
A network topology is defined as the layout or arrangement of elements, like nodes or links, in a communication network. Network topologies describe the setup of different telecommunication networks, including computer networks, command and control radio networks, and industrial field buses.
Types of Network Topology
There four main types of network topologies:
- Bus topology
- Star topology
- Mesh topology
- Ring topology
There are also hybrid network topologies, which are a combination of two or more topologies. As they are a combination of other topologies, there is a large variation in what a hybrid can look like.
The different types of network topologies are shown in the diagram below:
Selecting the right network topology depends on many factors, including the distance between each node, operational flexibility, redundancy, and the number of nodes that need to be connected to the network.
Let’s review the main types of network topologies – looking at examples and the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
