Network topologies

Question 1

What is a Network topology?

Answer 1

A Network topology refers to the layout of computer systems on a network. Devices are often called ‘nodes’.

Question 2

Advantages of a bus topology

Answer 2

cheap- uses minimal cables
easy to add another node
easy to set up

Question 3

Disadvantages of bus

Answer 3

single point failure
not secure- all nodes see data
likely to have data collisions

Question 4

Advantages of star topology

Answer 4

• Damaged link only affects the attached node
• can easily add new nodes
• works well under a heavy load

Question 5

Disadvantages of star topology

Answer 5

more cables than bus and ring

single point of failure

Question 6

Advantages of the ring topology

Answer 6

performs better than the bus topology under a heavy load.
no need for network servers.
data collisions are avoided as it all travels in one direction.

Question 7

Disadvantages of the ring topology

Answer 7

single point of failure.
not very secure-all nodes see the data.
the whole network is as slow as its slowest link.

Question 8

advantages of the mesh topology

Answer 8

no central node-no single point failure.
data uses the most direct route.
works well under heavy load.

Question 9

Disadvantages of the mesh topology

Answer 9

increased cables, which makes it more expensive.

far more complicated to manage and maintain.