TOPOLOGY

 

🔗 What is Topology in Networking?

Topology refers to the arrangement or layout of network devices (like computers, switches, routers) and how they are connected to each other.

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🔹 Types of IP Topologies

1. Physical Topology:

   • Refers to the actual physical layout of devices and cables.

   • Examples: Bus, Ring, Star, Mesh, Tree

2. Logical (IP) Topology:

   • Refers to how data flows logically using IP addresses regardless of physical connection.

   • It is how the IP packets travel through the network.

📊 Types of Network Topologies

1. Bus Topology

   • All devices are connected to a single central cable (the "bus").

   • 🔹 Pros: Easy to install.

   • 🔸 Cons: One cable failure can bring down the whole network.

2. Star Topology

   • All devices are connected to a central hub or switch.

   • 🔹 Pros: Easy to manage; failure in one device doesn’t affect others.

   • 🔸 Cons: If the hub/switch fails, the entire network goes down.

3. Ring Topology

   • Devices are connected in a circular loop.

   • 🔹 Pros: Data flows in one direction, reducing collisions.

   • 🔸 Cons: A break in the ring affects the whole network.

4. Mesh Topology

   • Every device is connected to every other device.

   • 🔹 Pros: High fault tolerance and redundancy.

   • 🔸 Cons: Expensive and complex to set up.

5. Tree Topology (Hybrid of star + bus)

   • Groups of star networks connected to a central bus.

   • 🔹 Pros: Scalable.

   • 🔸 Cons: If the backbone fails, entire segments go down.

6. Hybrid Topology

   • Mix of two or more topologies (e.g., star + mesh).

   • 🔹 Pros: Flexible and scalable.

   • 🔸 Cons: Complex to design and manage.

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🧠 Simple Example:

Think of topology like a map of roads connecting cities. The type of roads (straight line, circle, central hub) affects how fast and reliable travel (data) is.

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✅ Use in Networking:

• Helps in planning and designing networks.

• Affects performance, cost, reliability, and scalability.