Network Topolgies Flashcards
How does a Star Topology work?
Network where all devices are connected to a central switch/ server than controls network
What does a central switch do?
Allows devices to access server simultaneously
Pros of Star topology?
If the device fails or cable disconnected, the rest of network unaffected
Simple to add more devices to the network
Better performance- data goes straight to central device so all devices can transmit data at once (unlike ring network) and there are very few data collisions (unlike bus network)
Cons of star Topology?
Every device needs to connect to central switch or server- can be expensive e.g office building with 50 terminals
Problem with switch/server then the whole network is affected
How does a bus network set-up work?
Devices arranged in a line, send data in both directions
Cons of bus network set-up?
Data collisions can be caused which slows down the network.
How does a ring network set-up work?
Data moves in one direction around the ring preventing collisions.
Cons of ring network set-up?
Only one device can send data at a time
Data passes through many devices by reaching its destination
How does a Mesh topology work?
Its decentralised- connected either directly or indirectly to every other one without the need for a central switch of server
Work by sending data along the fastest route from one device to another
Main advantages of Mesh topology
No single point where network can fail
If one device fails the data sent along different route until it gets to target
More practical- more people using wireless technology
Cons of Mesh topology
very expensive- need a lot of wire to connect so many devices together
What is the difference between a full mesh topology and an partial mesh topology?
A full mesh topology is where every device is connected to every other device however in a partial mesh topology not all devices are fully connected.
