Basic concepts of Network

Network topologies

Topology refers to the way in which the network of computers is connected. The choice of topology is dependent upon: 
1) Type and number of equipment being used 
2) Planned applications and rate of data transfers 
3) Required response times 
4) Cost 
types of network topologies


Physical Topology: Physical topology defines how devices are connected to the network through the actual cables that transmit data(physical structure of the network) 
Logical Topology: Logical Topology (also referred to as Signal Topology) is a network computing term used to describe the arrangement of devices on a network and how they communicate with one another.
bus topology
In a BUS topology: 
1) A single cable connects each workstation in a linear, daisy-chained fashion.
2) Signals are broadcasted to all stations, but stations only act on the frames addressed to them.

ring topology
In a RING topology:
1) Unidirectional links connect the transmit side of one device to the receive side of another device. 
2) Devices transmit frames to the next device (downstream member) in the ring.

star topology


In a star topology:
1) Each station is connected to a central Hub or Switch (concentrator) that functions as a multi-port repeater. 
2) The HUB broadcasts data all of the devices connected to it.
3) The Switch transmits the data to the dedicated device for which the data is meant for.