Network Topology.
What is Topology in Computer Network ?
1049
03-Dec-2019
Updated on 21-Feb-2025
Khushi Singh
21-Feb-2025Topology in a computer network refers to the arrangement or layout of devices, nodes, and connections in a network. The system depicts the methods by which computers together with routers switches and network devices develop their interconnections to exchange information. Network efficiency along with performance and scalability levels depend directly on network topology configuration.
A network requires two primary types which include Physical Topology and Logical Topology. Network physical configuration forms physical topology while logical topology represents the method by which network data moves through the system.
Network configuration adopts mainly three standard topologies:
1. The bus network arrangement connects all devices to one central main cable called a backbone. The layout maintains simplicity and lower costs yet suffers from sluggish performance together with possible main cable-related faults.
2. Each Star Topology device connects through a central hub or switch to other devices. This topology is common because it delivers trustworthy operations and effortless maintenance assessment but its effectiveness depends on the hub's operational stability.
3. A circular method of device connection known as Ring Topology allows data to move through both directions. When using a single-ring configuration network failures in one device will affect the entire system unless a dual-ring setup exists.
4. Every network connection is fully linked to all devices resulting in high redundancy together with reliability in a Mesh Topology design. The implementation process is both complex and expensive for this topology.
5. Tree Topology represents a network design that unites the structures of bus and star topologies to serve extensive network requirements. The design enables scalability yet it depends on a single control hub.
6. Network flexibility and efficiency increase when deploying Hybrid Topology since it merges other selected topologies according to customized network requirements.
Organizations need to select their network topology based on their combined priorities between cost factors with performance needs, fault tolerance requirements and scalability needs. A correctly designed network topology directly improves operational efficiency and minimizes technological interruptions and enables steady data transfer within the system.