Network Topology

Network Topology

The different way computers (and network enabled peripherals) are arranged on or connected to a network. The most common network topologies are:

• Star. All computers are connected to a central hub.
• Ring. Each computer is connected to two others, such that starting at any one computer you can trace the connection through each computer back on the ring back to the first.
• Bus. All computers are connected to a central cable, normally termed bus or backbone.
• Tree. Group of start networks each connected to a linear bus.

These topologies can be mixed.