Network Topology

A network topology refers to the layout of the computer in a communication network. It refers to both the physical and logical layout of a

network.

Physical topology	Logical topology
The arrangement of a cabling is the physical topology	The path that data travels between computers on a network is logical topology

There are 3 commonly used network topologies 



1. Bus network topology

Advantages and disadvantages of Bus topology

Advantages	Disadvantages
It works well when you have a small network	It can be difficult to identify the problems if the whole network goes down
It is the easiest network topology for connecting computers or peripherals in a linear fashion	It can be hard to troubleshoot.Individual device issue
It requires less cable length than a star topology	If a main cable is damaged,the network fails or splits into two

2.Star network topology

Advantages & disadvantages of star topology

Advantages	Disadvantages
If one device fails.the other will not be affected	If the hub/switch fails.Entire network will be inoperable
Device can be added or remove without any distruption	Require more cable than other topologies
Easy to troubleshoot and isolate problem	Most expensive because of the cost of the hubs/switch

3. Ring network topology

Advantages & disadvantages of Ring Topology

Advantages	Disadvantages
All data flows in one direction,reducing the chance of packet collision	All data being transferred over the network must pass through each workstation on the network,which make it slower than a star topology
A network server is not needed to control network connectivity between each workstation	The entire network will be impacted if one workstation shuts down
Data can transfer between workstations at high speed	The hardware needed to connect each workstation to the network is more expensive