1.2 Explain the characteristics of network topologies and network types. Flashcards
What is a Mesh network topology?
Each node is interconnected with every other node, providing high redundancy and reliability
What is a Star/hub-and-spoke network topology?
Connects all devices to a central hub or switch.
It is easy to manage and troubleshoot but relies on the central hub’s functionality.
What is a Bus network topology?
Connects all devices along a single cable, known as a bus.
Data sent by one device is available to all devices, but if the bus fails, the network is disrupted.
What is a Ring network topology?
Connects devices in a circular sequence.
Each device has exactly two neighbors for communication purposes.
Data travels in one or both directions around the ring.
Often used in MAN and WANs
What is a Hybrid network topology?
Combines two or more different types of topologies,
such as star and mesh, to form a more complex network structure
What is a Peer-to-peer network?
Allows each device to act as both a client and a server.
It is decentralized and each device shares resources directly with others.
What is a Client-server network?
Has centralized servers that provide resources and services to client devices.
Clients request resources, and servers respond to those requests.
What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?
Covers a small geographic area, like a single building or campus, providing high-speed connectivity within that area.
What is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?
Spans a larger geographic area than a LAN,
such:
city
large campus
What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?
Spans a large geographic area, often a country or continent,
Connects multiple LANs and MANs.
What is a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)?
802.11
Uses wireless communication technologies,
such as:
Wi-Fi
Limited distance
What is a Personal Area Network (PAN)?
Small network used for connecting devices in an individual’s workspace, typically within a range of a few meters.
Bluetooth
What is a Campus Area Network (CAN)?
Connects multiple LANs within a limited geographic area,
university campus corporate campus
What is a Storage Area Network (SAN)?
Provides access to consolidated block-level storage, enhancing performance and accessibility of storage resources.
What is a Software-defined Wide Area Network (SDWAN)?
Uses software to manage and control network resources and services across a WAN, optimizing performance and reducing costs.
No central point
Example: Cloud