Network Topologies Flashcards
What is a Network Topology?
A technical term that describes the layout of connections in a network
What are the 2 types of topologies?
Star
Mesh
What is a Star network topology?
A central device directly connected to all other nodes. Just like a star shape
What could the central node be in a star network topology?
A hub, switch or server
Where are star topologies most commonly used?
In an office or small company because it is very efficient, relatively low cost, and fairly simple to set up
How reliable are star networks?
Very reliable, because if one connection fails, it does not affect other users
Are data collisions frequent on a star network?
No, as each node has its own cable to the server
What’s the security like on a star network?
Good security - no workstation can interact with another without going through the server first
How simple or difficult is it to add or remove nodes from a star topology?
Very simple, as it has no effect on any other node
How expensive is a star topology?
The most expensive network layout to install because of the amount of cables needed
What do you need to set up a star topology?
Installing the network usually needs experts to set it up
What happens if the central switch or server fails on a star topology?
The whole network goes down
What does a star topology require in the centre?
A high performance switch or server in the centre as all traffic passes through it
What is a mesh network
Where each node relays the data it receives to other nodes within reach. Unlike a star network, there is no central node in a mesh network
Why do mesh networks have excellent wireless range?
Most of the nodes are in the wireless range and so can easily exchange data with one another
Why are mesh networks very robust?
If one node fails, then other nodes within range allow data transmission around the network to continue
Give 6 places that a mesh network is used in
Music Streaming In Factories Military Surveying Rescue Service Mobile hot-spots
What is the main advantage of a mesh network?
There is no central node to fail
Why are mesh networks excellent for wireless networks?
As each node re-broadcasts all the data packets it receives
What is advantage, in regards to data packets, for mesh networks?
Data packets can be sent simultaneously
What are 2 main disadvantages with mesh networks?
The number of connections increase massively as more nodes are added
Very expensive for a wired network due to cabling and switches needed
