In communication networks, a topology is a usually schematic description of the arrangement of a network.
THERE ARE FOUR TYPES OF TOPOLOGYS
Bus topology is a specific kind of network topology in which all of the various devices in the network are connected to a single cable or line. In general, the term refers to how various devices are set up in a network.
A ring network is a network topology in which each node connects to exactly two other nodes, forming a single continuous pathway for signals through each node - a ring. Data travels from node to node, with each node along the way handling every packet.
A mesh network is a local area network (LAN), wireless local area network (WLAN) or virtual LAN (VLAN) that employs one of two decentralized connection arrangements: full mesh topology or partial mesh topology. In a full mesh topology, each network node (workstation or other device) is connected directly to each of the others.
Star networks are one of the most common computer network topologies. In its simplest form, a star network consists of one central node, typically a switch or hub, which acts as a conduit to transmit messages. In star topology, every node (computer workstation or any other peripheral) is connected to a central node. The switch is the server and the peripherals are the clients..
COMPARE SWITCH , HUB AND ROUTER
SWITCHES
1) A network switch is a computer networking device that connects devices together on a computers and networks, by using packet switching to receive, process and forward data to the destination device
2)Data Transmission form :Frame (L2 Switch) Frame & Packet (L3 switch)
3)Transmission Type: First broadcast; then unicast & multicast as needed.
4) Device Type :Active Device (With Software) & Networking device
5) .Transmission Mode:Half/Full duplex
6)Table:Switches use content accessible memory CAM table which is typically accessed by ASIC (Application Specific integrated chips).
HUBS
1) Hub is the most basic networking device that connects multiple computers or other network devices together
2) Data Transmission form Electrical signal or bits
3)Transmission Type Hubs always perform frame flooding; may be unicast, multicast or broadcast
4)Device Type:Passive Device (Without Software)
5)Transmission Mode :Half duplex
6)Table:A network hub cannot learn or store MAC address.
ROUTERS
1) A router is a networking device that forwards data from one network to another.
2) Data Transmission form is in Packet form
3) Transmission Type:At Initial Level Broadcast then Uni-cast & Multicast.
4)Device Type is Networking device
5)Transmission Mode:Full duplex
6)Table:Stores IP address in Routing table and maintain address at its own.
