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 what network topology is, its types, and its 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 in a network. Nodes typically include devices such as switches, routers, and software with switch and router features. In general, a network topology is displayed as a graph.

A network topology is an arrangement of a network that illustrates the traffic that occurs within it. Network administrators can use graphs or diagrams to optimize their traffic. If the network topology is well-defined and planned, then companies using the network can more easily find and fix problems.

Why is Network Topology Important

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

Network topology has a direct impact on network functionality, as it plays a very important role in how the network works. Make sure to choose the right topology in order to improve performance. In addition, the network topology also needs to be properly maintained and monitored to improve data transfer rates and energy efficiency.

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

Types of Network Topology

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

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 mainly in broadband distribution networks.

Pros

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

Cons

• Cable length is limited.
• 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.

Pros

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

Cons

• Network operation depends on the functioning of the central hub.
• Failure in the central hub causes failure in the entire network.
• Installation costs are 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 transmission in both directions. Bidirectional ring networks are more resilient than bus networks because traffic can reach nodes by traveling in both directions.

Pros

• No central server is required to manage it.
• Unidirectional traffic and high-speed data transmission.
• Addition or removal of network nodes is easy.
• Identification of problems in network nodes is easier.
• Every node has the opportunity to transmit data. That way, the network topology is highly organized.

Cons

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

4. Mesh Network

A 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 some connections to other nodes.

The merging of multiple paths increases the resilience 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.

Pros

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

Cons

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

5. Tree Network

Tree network topology is so 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.

Pros

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

Cons

• The network relies heavily on the bus, if it 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.

Pros

• Hybrid topologies are 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.

Cons

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

That’s the complete 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!