What is a network topology?

In Computer Network ,there are various ways through which different components are connected to one
another. Network Topology is the way that defines the structure, and how these components are
connected to each other.
Network topologies are categorized as either a physical network topology that describes how network
devices are physically connected and the logical network topology which refers to the way data is
transmitted and received in a network, regardless of the physical layout
There are several types of topologies. For example, physical topologies include the following.

Mesh Topology

Star Topology

Bus Topology

Ring Topology

Tree Topology

Hybrid Topology
First let's focus on mesh topology. Imagine of a network in which each device is connected to every other
device with its own dedicated point to point link, this kind of network topology called as mesh topology.
Each device has n-1 links with its own and the entire network consists of n(n-1)/2 links. When a device
need to communicate with another device it directly communicate with that device without any
intermediary component . The routing algorithm will be decide optimal path to communicate even if a
link is not active.

Mesh topology is high fault tolerance. Because even a single device failure will not interrupt the network
functionality. Because data will be passed through alternative paths. The dedicated point to point link
ensure data privacy and the security. It's also easy to add a new device to the network and making it
scalable for future growth.

Mesh topology have some drawbacks also. Implementation cost , power consumption, fitting space are
higher than other networks. Maintaining a mesh topology is quite hard. So in simple terms. A mesh
network enable every device to communicate directly to each devices securely, but it is expensive and
complicated.
So it's about mesh topology and let's move to Start topology. Star topology is one in which every
network component is physically connected to a central hub, switch, or router. The central node (acts) as
server. The connecting nodes (acts) as clients. The data transmission between nodes is handled by a
central device. In this topology when data is transmitted, first it is sent to the central hub, which then
transfers the data to connected devices. After receiving the data the nodes look for the target addresses.
The data is processed if the addresses match. If not erased.

Numerous network topologies are used in the field of computer networks to connect devices. Local area
networks and other small-scale networks commonly use the star topology. A star topology is also known
as a star network.

there are many advantages of this topology such as reliability, high performance, and it is also less
expensive.

But unfortunately there are some disadvantages as well, the network cables are expensive, extra
hardware is required, the whole system will fail if the hub or switch fails.
The next topology we are going to talk is Bus topology. Bus topology is a common way to set up a
network. Imagine a bus, where everyone receives the same announcement. That's kind of how a bus
topology network works. Devices are connected to a single main cable, like passengers on the bus. When
a device, like a computer, wants to send information, it broadcasts it to everyone on the cable. Each
device checks the message's address, like a stop announcement, and only the intended recipient accepts
it.

Bus topology is great for small networks because it's simple and cheap to set up. You just need one
cable and connectors for each device. It's also easy to add or remove devices without affecting the whole
network, just like passengers getting on or off the bus.

However, there are downsides. Since everyone hears everything on the bus, collisions can happen if two
devices try to talk at once. This disrupts communication, slowing things down. Additionally, a single
break in the cable can bring the entire network down, just like a broken bus brings everyone to a halt. So,
bus topology is a good choice for small, low-traffic networks where cost and simplicity are priorities.
So it's all about bus topology and now let's delve into the ring topology. A ring topology connects devices
in a circular structure, with each device communicating with its immediate neighbors on the ring. This
arrangement handles network traffic more efficiently than a bus architecture and can handle larger
loads. There are two main types of ring topologies: bidirectional and unidirectional. In a bidirectional
ring, data can travel in both directions, and in a unidirectional ring, data can flow in only one direction.
Ring topologies are used in both Local Area Networks and Wide Area Networks. Connections in this
architecture are often established by RJ-45 network cables or coaxial cables. A unique feature of ring
topology is the use of tokens to manage data transmission, known as token passing.

Ring topology offers benefits like reduced data collisions through token passing, equal resource access
for all nodes, and simple fault isolation. There is a simple structure without a central server.

However, a break in the ring disrupts the entire network, and can cause unidirectional traffic.
Additionally, potential security issues arise from data packets traveling through linked nodes.
Now we are going to talk about tree topology which is a networking structure that integrates multiple
star networks and connects them to a linear bus backbone cable. It combines features of star and bus
topologies, with nodes connected hierarchically. The basic structure involves hub devices connecting
directly to the backbone, acting as the "root" of a tree of devices.

Tree topology is commonly used in applications like database arrangement and corporate network
setup. Its advantages include flexibility in expansion, making it an ideal choice for growing networks.
Point-to-point wiring for individual segments simplifies fault detection reducing downtime and
maintenance efforts.

It is well-suited for small-sized organizations due to its clear and organized network design. Also it
ensures smooth network function by ensuring that other nodes remain unaffected if one node fails or is
damaged.

However,Failure of backbone cable brings down entire network, and setting up and maintaining a tree
topology network can be challenging due to the need of large number of cables. Tree topology is less
secure than other topologies due to potential entry points for unauthorized access. Overall, while it is
flexible and scalable, it has these down sides.
Finally let's conclude are video with hybrid topology which a combination of two or more network
topologies, such as mesh topology, star topology, bus topology, ring topology. It’s usage and choices are
dependent on its deployments and requirements, such as the desired network's performance and the
number and position of its computers.

Standards like Ethernet and Wi-Fi are used by this topology to carry out its many functions. The process
that various types of hybrid routers, switches and hubs, connect devices connected to wired or wireless
networks is essential to the operation of hybrid topology.

The advantages of several topologies are combined into one topology with this topology. as for the
unique advantages this topology is flexible , troubleshooting and error detecting is easy.

However there are also some disadvantages of this topology like the design is very complex and
expensive and due to the requirements of the hardware parts the installation process is difficult.