DCN Assignment 08
DCN Assignment 08
1. Star Topology
Definition:
In a star topology, all devices (nodes) are connected to a central hub or switch. Each device has
a dedicated point-to-point connection to the hub.
Advantages:
• Easy to Install and Manage: The star topology is straightforward to install. Adding or
removing devices does not disrupt the network.
• Failure Isolation: If one connection fails, it does not affect the others. Only the device
connected to the failed link is affected.
• Scalability: New devices can easily be added to the network without major changes.
Disadvantages:
• Central Point of Failure: If the central hub or switch fails, the entire network goes down.
• Cost: Requires more cabling than some other topologies (like bus), which can increase
installation costs.
• Performance: Performance can degrade with an excessive number of connected
devices, as the hub can become a bottleneck.
pg. 1
2. Ring Topology
Definition:
In a ring topology, each device is connected to two others, forming a circular pathway for data.
Data travels in one direction (or both in dual-ring topologies).
Advantages:
• Orderly Network Traffic: Data packets travel in one direction, reducing the chance of
data collisions.
• Easy to Troubleshoot: Problems can be quickly identified by following the data flow
around the ring.
Disadvantages:
• Single Point of Failure: If one device fails or a connection is broken, it can disrupt the
entire network.
• Difficult to Add Devices: Adding or removing devices can disrupt the network and
requires temporarily breaking the ring.
• Latency: The time taken for data to travel around the ring can increase with more devices.
3. Hybrid Topology
Definition:
A hybrid topology combines two or more different types of topologies, such as star, ring, or bus.
It is often used in larger networks.
Advantages:
• Flexibility: Organizations can use the most appropriate topology for different segments
of the network.
• Scalability: New devices or topologies can be added without affecting existing
structures.
• Improved Performance: Depending on the configuration, it can reduce network traffic
and improve overall performance.
Disadvantages:
• Complexity: The setup and management can become complex due to the combination
of different topologies.
• Cost: More expensive to implement due to the need for various devices and cabling.
• Maintenance Challenges: Requires careful management to ensure all segments work
correctly.
pg. 2
4. Tree Topology
Definition:
A tree topology is a hierarchical structure that combines characteristics of star and bus
topologies. It consists of a root node and sub-nodes, forming a tree-like structure.
Advantages:
• Hierarchical Structure: Makes it easier to manage and understand the network layout.
• Scalability: Easily add more devices and branches to the tree without major changes.
• Isolation of Segments: If one branch fails, the others remain functional.
Disadvantages:
• Dependency on the Root Node: The failure of the root node can impact the entire
network.
• Complexity: Can become complex and hard to manage if not well-organized.
• Cost: More cabling and devices required than simpler topologies.
pg. 3
5. Mesh Topology
Definition:
In a mesh topology, every device is connected to every other device. This offers high redundancy
and reliability.
Advantages:
• High Reliability: Redundant connections mean that if one link fails, data can take an
alternative path.
• Fault Isolation: Problems can be easily isolated since multiple connections exist.
• High Performance: No data collisions due to multiple pathways.
Disadvantages:
• High Cost: Requires significant cabling and network devices, making it expensive to
implement.
• Complexity in Configuration: The complexity increases with more devices, making
setup and management challenging.
• Difficult Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting can become complicated due to the
numerous connections.
pg. 4