Topologies

 Topologies 

What is a network topology? 

A topology is the arrangement of equipment and hardware located in a network. Topologies show the arrangement of links and nodes, different ways of linking devices together and endpoints. 

Examples of network topologies 

Point to point – This is a very basic topology just consisting of 2 nodes and a connection between them. For example, by using 2 computers and an ethernet cable, the computers will be able to send resources to each other. Point to point networks are simple and easy to set up, however, they lack scalability. 

Star – A star topology is a centralised topology consisting of multiple nodes and a central hub/switch. Each node can send resources to the hub/switch which is then routed to the endpoint. Star topologies are capable of sustaining lots of devices and can be scaled very easily, however, the centralised device creates a single point of failure which can be catastrophic in a fault situation. 

Mesh – A mesh topology is a decentralised design consisting of multiple nodes all connected to each other through a system of cables. For each node in the network, they all must be connected to each other with links between them. Mesh networks are decentralised meaning that there is no single point of failure. Even if one node or link goes down, the others can still function properly. However, they can get complicated very quickly and expensive with all the links that need to be installed.