NT1310 Unit 3 Assignment 1

Network Topology

This paper will discuss the three types of network topologies discussed in Chapter 3. They are, hierarchical star, bus, and ring network topologies. Each has its advantages and disadvantages as will be discussed The hierarchical star is the most common one used in modern networks. It allows many pieces of equipment to be connected to the network via a hub or more commonly a switch. It allows for one continuous connection from the telecom room to the user end equipment. If the cable fails it means only that piece connected will not be on the network and that only that cable need be replaced, leaving all other components connected to function normally. The biggest disadvantage to this type of network is that there is only a single point where all the cabling is terminated and if that piece, be it hub or switch, goes bad the entire network goes down, however once that piece is replaced it brings the entire network back up. A bus topology uses one cable to connect many different pieces of equipment to one cable. That cable is typically a coax that is connected to a terminator, also known as a resistor, at each end that keeps the signal from “ringing.” This type of network is usually less expensive than other forms due to its lack of needing multiple cables. This can also lend itself to failure if the cable is cut or the resistor goes bad the whole network goes down and can’t be brought back until that cable is replaced, much more difficult than replacing a switch or hub. Ring Networks, just as its name implies, require all computers or hardware to be connected in a continuous circle with no ending, hubs or switches. In this setup signals are passed along thru each terminal on its way to the end user. A ring network can be very difficult to install due to the circular configuration making it tough to do in a large area. There are multiple points of failure in this setup, if a cable or a piece of hardware fails this can lead to the entire network going down. This type of network is rarely ever found anymore, nor is it normally requested to be installed due to its difficulty in installation, difficulty in troubleshooting, and the fact that the entire network is based on everything functioning properly.