Network
Network
A network topology is the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections
in a network. Nodes usually include devices such as switches, routers and software
with switch and router features. Network topologies are often represented as a graph.
Network topologies describe the arrangement of networks and the relative location of
traffic flows. Administrators can use network topology diagrams to determine the best
placements for each node and the optimal path for traffic flow. With a well-defined
and planned-out network topology, an organization can more easily locate faults and
fix issues, improving its data transfer efficiency.
Network geometry can be defined as the physical topology and the logical topology.
Network topology diagrams are shown with devices depicted as network nodes and
the connections between them as lines. The type of network topology differs
depending on how the network needs to be arranged.
A well-defined network topology makes it easier for network admins to locate faults,
troubleshoot issues and to allocate network resources. Diagrams are an important
reference point in helping to diagnose network issues, as they can represent physical
and logical layouts.
What are the types of network topologies?
The physical topology of a network is the physical layout of nodes and connections.
Connections include the lines in diagrams that connect nodes, such as Ethernet or
Digital Subscriber Line wires, fiber optics and microwaves.
Star network. In the star network topology, a central device connects to all
other nodes through a central hub. Switched local area networks based on
Ethernet switches and most wired home and office networks have a physical
star topology.
Ring network. In the ring network topology, the nodes are connected in a
closed-loop configuration. Some rings pass data in one direction only, while
others are capable of transmission in both directions. These bidirectional
ring networks are more resilient than bus networks since traffic can reach a
node by moving in either direction. Metro networks based on Synchronous
Optical Network technology are the primary example of ring networks.
Mesh network. The mesh network topology links nodes with connections
so that multiple paths between at least some points of the network are
available. A network is considered to be fully meshed if all nodes are
directly connected to all other nodes and partially meshed if only some
nodes have multiple connections to others. Meshing multiple paths
increases resiliency but also increases cost. However, more space is needed
for dedicated links.