What is Network Topology?

A network topology describes the arrangement of systems on a computer network. It defines how the computers, or nodes, within the network are arranged and connected to each other. Some common network topologies include star, ring, line, bus, and tree configurations. These topologies are defined below:

1. Star - One central note is connected to each of the other nodes on a network. Similar to a hub connected to the spokes in a wheel.
2. Ring - Each node is connected to exactly two other nodes, forming a ring. Can be visualized as a circular configuration. Requires at least three nodes.
3. Line - Nodes are arranged in a line, where most nodes are connected to two other nodes. However, the first and last node are not connected like they are in a ring.
4. Bus - Each node is connected to a central bus that runs along the entire network. All information transmitted across the bus can be received by any system in the network.
5. Tree - One "root" node connects to other nodes, which in turn connect to other nodes, forming a tree structure. Information from the root node may have to pass through other nodes to reach the end nodes.

It is helpful for a network administrator to know the pros and cons of different network topologies when putting together a network. By weighing the benefits of each type, the administrator can choose the configuration that is most efficient for the network's intended purpose.

What is Networking?

 A network is a group of two or more computer systems linked together. There are many types of computer networks, including:

local-area networks (LANs) : The computers are geographically close together (that is, in the same building).

wide-area networks (WANs) : The computers are farther apart and are connected by telephone lines or radio waves.

campus-area networks (CANs): The computers are within a limited geographic area, such as a campus or military base.

metropolitan-area networks MANs): A data network designed for a town or city.

home-area networks (HANs): A network contained within a user's home that connects a person's digital devices.

In addition to these types, the following characteristics are also used to categorize different types of networks:

topology : The geometric arrangement of a computer system. Common topologies include a bus, star, and ring. See the Network topology diagrams in the Quick Reference section of Webopedia.

protocol : The protocol defines a common set of rules and signals that computers on the network use to communicate. One of the most popular protocols for LANs is called Ethernet. Another popular LAN protocol for PCs is the IBM token-ring network .

architecture : Networks can be broadly classified as using either apeer-to-peer or client/server architecture.

Computers on a network are sometimes called nodes. Computers anddevices that allocate resources for a network are called servers.

(v.) To connect two or more computers together with the ability to communicate with each other.