Network Topology Guide

A network topology is the layout of computers, cables, and other devices on a network. It is a plan of the physical network. The type of topology you use affects the type and capabilities of the network's hardware, its management, and possibilities for expansion.

Topology is both physical and logical: -

Physical topology describes how the physical devices on a network are connected, while logical topology describes the way data flows through the physical devices.

There are five basic topologies: -

• Bus - Computers are connected to one common, shared cable.
• Star - Computers are connected to cable segments that branch out from a central hub or switch.
• Ring - Computers are connected to a cable that forms a loop.
• Mesh - Computers on the network are connected to every other computer by cable.
• Hybrid - Two or more of the above topologies are used in combination.
  

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