Salar Network
Salar Network
1. Introduction
2. Types of Network Topologies
o Bus Topology
o Star Topology
o Ring Topology
o Mesh Topology
o Tree Topology
o Hybrid Topology
3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Topology
4. Comparison of Network Topologies
5. Conclusion
6. References
1
Introduction
Networking is a fundamental aspect of modern communication systems, facilitating the
exchange of information between computers and devices. Network topology refers to the
arrangement of different elements (nodes, links, etc.) in a network. This report explores the
various types of network topologies, their advantages, disadvantages, and the most suitable use
cases
2
Types of Network Topologies
Network topologies define the structure and layout of connections between devices. The
primary types include:
Bus Topology
Bus topology consists of a single central cable, known as the backbone, to which all network
devices are connected.
Advantages:
• Simple and cost-effective.
• Easy to implement and expand.
• Requires less cabling than other topologies.
Disadvantages:
• A single point of failure (if the main cable fails, the whole network is affected).
• Performance degrades as more devices are added.
• Difficult to troubleshoot.
Star Topology
In star topology, all nodes are connected to a central hub or switch.
Advantages:
• High reliability (failure of a single device does not affect the network).
• Easy to install and configure.
• Easy to detect and troubleshoot issues.
Disadvantages:
• High dependency on the central hub; if it fails, the entire network goes down.
• Requires more cabling, increasing costs.
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Ring Topology
In ring topology, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a circular data path.
Advantages:
• Data transmission is smooth and in one direction, reducing chances of collision.
• Can handle large amounts of data traffic.
Disadvantages:
• Failure of a single node can disrupt the entire network.
• Difficult to expand and maintain.
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Mesh Topology
Mesh topology provides direct point-to-point connections between every node in the network.
Advantages:
• High redundancy and reliability.
• No single point of failure.
• Supports high data traffic loads.
Disadvantages:
• Expensive due to extensive cabling and infrastructure requirements.
• Complex setup and maintenance.
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Tree Topology
Tree topology is a hierarchical structure combining multiple star networks connected to a bus
backbone.
Advantages:
• Scalable and easy to expand.
• Well-structured and supports large networks.
• Fault isolation is easier.
Disadvantages:
• High cabling cost.
• If the backbone fails, the entire network is affected.
Hybrid Topology
Hybrid topology is a combination of two or more different topologies.
Advantages:
• Highly flexible and scalable.
• Can be customized based on network requirements.
Disadvantages:
• Complex design and implementation.
• Expensive due to additional infrastructure.
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Comparison of Network Topologies
Topology Cost Scalability Reliability Complexity Fault Tolerance
Bus Low Low Low Simple Low
Star Medium High High Simple High
Ring Medium Medium Medium Complex Low
Mesh High High Very High Very Complex Very High
Tree High High High Complex Medium
Hybrid Very High Very High Very High Very Complex High
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Conclusion
Each network topology has its own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for
different environments. While bus topology is cost-effective for small networks, star topology is
widely used due to its ease of maintenance and reliability. Ring topology ensures efficient data
transfer but is less flexible, whereas mesh topology offers the best reliability at a high cost. Tree
and hybrid topologies provide scalability and flexibility but require substantial investment. The
choice of topology depends on factors like budget, scalability, fault tolerance, and network size.
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References
1.Data Communications and Networking – Behrouz A. Forouzan
• Covers different network topologies (bus, ring, star, mesh, tree, and hybrid).