Answer to Question #316043 in Computer Networks for skyler

Question

“Network topology can simply be defined as the arrangement of the elements (links, nodes, etc.) of a communication network”. With reference to the foregoing statement, use a well labelled diagram, describing any three types of Network topologies and highlighting their advantages and disadvantage

Answer 1

1.Partial Meshi Topology: In this topology some of the systems are connected in the same fashion as mesh topology but some devices are only connected to two or three devices.

2. Full Mesh Topology: Each and every nodes or devices are connected to each other.

Structures of Mesh Topology

Fully connected.

Robust.

Not flexible. 

Advantages of Mesh Topology

Each connection can carry its own data load.

It is robust.

‘Fault is diagnosed easily.

Provides security and privacy.

Disadvantages of Mesh Topology

Installation and configuration is difficult.

Cabling cost is more.

Bulk wiring is required. 

Structures of Tree Topology

Ideal if workstations are located in groups.

Used in Wide Area Network. 

Advantages of Tree Topology

Extension of bus and star topologies.

Expansion of nodes is possible and easy.

Easily managed and maintained.

Error detection is easily done.

Disadvantages of Tree Topology

Heavily cabled.

Costly.

If more nodes are added maintenance is difficult.

Central hub fails, network fails

Structures of Hybrid Topology

It is a combination of two or topologies.

Inherits the advantages and disadvantages of the topologies included

Advantages of Hybrid Topology

Reliable as Error detecting and troubleshooting is easy.

Effective.

Scalable as size can be increased easily.

Flexible.

Disadvantages of Hybrid Topology

Complex in design.

Costly.