Chapter 5 - Network Topologies, Cables & Connectors.

Question 1

Explain a Bus Topology.

Answer 1

All computers are connected to each other. On both ends of the bus there needs to be terminators to stop signals from reflecting at the ends.

If there is a break on the bus, reflection will occur on the broken ends and effect the computers that are connected.

Question 2

Explain a Ring Topology.

Answer 2

All computers are connected to each other.

Data travels in a circle, in the Same direction.

A break in the ring breaks the circuit and stops the data flow.

Question 3

Explain a Star Topology.

Answer 3

All computers connect to a central box.

The benefit of a Star topology is Fault Tolerance. A break in a cable only effects that one computer.

Question 4

Explain a Hybrids Topology.

Answer 4

Hybrids use the combination of star and ring or star and bus.

Its part star because all computers connect to one box and part bus or ring because inside the box is a bus or ring.

Token Ring is a star/ring hybrid manufactured by IBM.

Question 5

Explain Meshed Topologies.

Answer 5

There are 2 types of meshed topologies Partially Meshed and Fully Meshed.

Partially Meshed - At least 2 computers have redundant connection and not every computer has to connect to every other computer.

Fully Meshed - every computer connects to every other computer.