Internet and Web | Class 12 Informatics Practices Notes

5.4 NETWORKING TOPOLOGIES

Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices and cables in a computer network. Common topologies include mesh, ring, bus, star, and tree (hybrid). In mesh topology, each device is connected to every other device, allowing multiple simultaneous transmissions and high reliability. However, mesh networks are expensive and complex to wire due to redundant connections. Ring topology connects each node to two others forming a closed loop; data travels in one direction only. Bus topology uses a single central cable (bus) to which all devices connect; data sent by one device is received by all. Bus and ring topologies are less secure and less reliable because a failure in the main cable or node can disrupt the network. Star topology connects all devices to a central node (hub or switch); it is efficient and fast, but failure of the central node can bring down the entire network. Tree or hybrid topology combines multiple topologies, often connecting several star networks via a bus backbone, commonly used in WANs. The choice of topology affects network performance, reliability, cost, and security.

📊 Diagram: Figure 5.12: A mesh topology; Figure 5.13: A ring topology; Figure 5.14: A bus topology; Figure 5.15: A star topology; Figure 5.16: A hybrid topology

🧪 Activity: Think and Reflect: How will a bus and ring topology behave in case a node is down?

🔗 Connection: Understanding topologies sets the stage for exploring the Internet as a global network of interconnected networks.