Network Topology: Definition, Types, Advantages and Disadvantages

Network topology refers to the arrangement of various elements ranging from nodes, links, or devices in a computer network. We will discuss network topologies, the types, and their advantages and disadvantages below. Important in network monitoring, here are more network topology details.

What is network topology?

Network topology is the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections within a network. Nodes usually include switches, routers, and software with switch and router features. Generally, network topologies are displayed as graphs.

Network topology is the arrangement of a network that illustrates the traffic occurring within it. Network administrators can use graphs or diagrams to optimize its traffic. If the network topology is well-defined and planned, then the company using the network can more easily identify and fix issues.

Why is Network Topology Important?

Choosing the right topology can help improve performance because the selected and properly maintained network topology will enhance energy efficiency and data transfer speed.

Network topology directly impacts network functionality, which is why it plays a crucial role in how the network operates. Make sure to choose the right topology to enhance performance. Additionally, network topologies also need to be properly maintained and monitored to improve data transfer speed and energy efficiency.

A well-defined network topology makes it easier for network administrators to identify problems, resolve them, and allocate network resources. Network topology diagrams become an important reference in helping diagnose problems on the network, as the diagrams can represent both physical and logical layouts.

Various Types of Network Topologies

In general, network topologies are categorized into two, namely physical networks and logical networks. The physical network topology is the physical layout of nodes and connections. Connections include lines in the diagram that connect nodes, such as Ethernet cables, fiber optics, and microwaves. Furthermore, network topologies are divided into several types, here is the complete information:

1. Bus Network

A bus network is a topology where each node is connected in series along a single cable. Today, bus network setups are found primarily in broadband distribution networks.

Advantages

• Easy to set up, handle, and implement.
• Very suitable for small networks.
• The cost is very affordable.

Disadvantages

• Limited cable length.
• Can only work well for limited nodes.
• Only suitable for low-traffic networks.

2. Star Network

In a star network, the central device is connected to all other nodes through a central hub. A routed local area network based on an Ethernet switch. Most wired home and office networks have a star physical topology.

Advantages

• It is centralized, so operations are simpler.
• Adding or removing nodes is easy without affecting the entire network.
• Problem detection is easier.
• Low security risk.

Disadvantages

• Network operation depends on the functioning of the central hub.
• Failure in the central hub causes failure in the entire network.
• Installation cost is quite high.

3. Ring Network

A ring network is a network where nodes are connected in a closed loop configuration. Some rings only pass data in one direction, while others are capable of transmitting in both directions. Bidirectional ring networks are more robust than bus networks because traffic can reach nodes by moving in both directions.

Advantages

• A central server is not needed to manage it.
• Unidirectional traffic and high-speed data transmission.
• The addition or removal of network nodes is easy to do.
• Identifying problems at network nodes is easier.
• Each node has the opportunity to send data. Thus, the network topology is very organized.

Disadvantages

• Failure in one node can cause the entire network to fail.
• Data sent from one node to another must pass through all intermediate nodes, due to which transmission can be slower.

4. Mesh Network

Mesh network topology connects nodes with connections so that multiple paths to at least some network points are available. A network is considered fully connected if all nodes are directly connected to all other nodes and partially connected if only some nodes have multiple connections to other nodes.

The incorporation of multiple paths increases the robustness of the network, but on the other hand it also increases the cost. In addition, mesh networks also require more space to house the dedicated links used.

Advantages

• The arrangement of mesh network nodes makes it possible to transmit data from one node to many other nodes at the same time.
• A failure in one node does not cause the network to fail.
• Able to handle heavy traffic.

Disadvantages

• Need a lot of cables.
• Due to its complexity, administration of this network is more difficult.

5. Tree Network

Tree network topology is named because it looks like a tree. This topology consists of one root node and all other nodes are connected in a hierarchy. The topology itself is connected in a star configuration. Many large Ethernet networks, including data center networks, are configured as tree networks.

Advantages

• Very useful in cases where star or bus networks cannot be implemented individually. Tree networks are suitable for networking multiple departments in a university or company with separate units. These units can still connect to the main node.
• Problem identification is easier.
• The network can be expanded by adding secondary nodes.

Disadvantages

• The network is highly dependent on the bus, if the bus fails it will affect the entire network.
• Maintenance is not easy and costs are high, due to its size and complexity.
• Although scalable, the number of nodes that can be added depends on the capacity of the central bus and the type of cable.

6. Hybrid Network

A hybrid network topology is a combination of two or more topologies. This type of topology usually provides great flexibility, as it can accommodate a number of settings. For example, different departments within the same company can choose a personalized network topology, making it easier to adapt to their network needs.

Advantages

• Hybrid topologies can be more reliable than individual topologies because if one part of the network fails, it does not necessarily affect the other parts.
• More scalable by adding or removing nodes without disrupting the entire network.
• More flexible as it can be designed to meet specific needs.
• The network structure is well-defined, which simplifies problem identification and resolution.
• Able to efficiently connect geographically dispersed locations.

Disadvantages 

• Costs tend to be higher than individual topologies.
• Installation can be more complicated.
• May require more hardware.
• There is a risk of cable failure.
• The design tends to be more complicated.

That’s all the info about network topology, choose the type that best suits your needs. Get info related to topology and network monitoring services on Netmonk. Keep your network secure with trusted services with Netmonk!