Networks
Topologies
In computer networking, topology refers to the layout of connected devices or a network. Network topologies are categorized into the following basic types:
· bus
· ring
· star
· tree
· mesh
Bus Topology
Bus networks (not to be confused with the system bus of a computer) use a common backbone to connect all devices.
Ring Topology
In a ring network, every device has exactly two neighbours for communication purposes. All messages travel through a ring in the same direction (either "clockwise" or "counter clockwise").
Star Topology
Many home networks use the star topology. A star network features a central connection point called a "hub node" that may be a network hub, switch or router . Devices typically connect to the hub with Un-shielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Ethernet. Compared to the bus topology, a star network generally requires more cable.
Tree Topology
A tree topology joins multiple star topologies together onto a bus. In its simplest form, only hub devices connect directly to the tree bus, and each hub functions as the root of a tree of devices.
Mesh Topology
Mesh topology introduces the concept of routes. Unlike each of the previous topologies, messages sent on a mesh network can take any of several possible paths from source to destination. (Recall that even in a ring, although two cable paths exist, messages can only travel in one direction.)
A mesh network in which every device connects to every other is called a full mesh. VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwEZR2vU1UA