which of the following is not a common network topology

Art Scpae

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16-10-2024

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Demystifying Network Topologies: Which One Doesn't Belong?

Network topologies are the backbone of any interconnected system, dictating how devices communicate. But with various types available, it can be tricky to identify which one stands out. Let's delve into the most common network topologies and pinpoint the odd one out.

The Usual Suspects:

1. Bus Topology: Imagine a single, long cable connecting all devices. This simple setup is cost-effective but suffers from bottlenecks as data travels along the entire line. (Think of a party line telephone - everyone shares the same line!)

2. Star Topology: Here, each device connects individually to a central hub or switch. This setup offers centralized management and fault isolation but is prone to single point of failure if the central device goes down. (Imagine everyone attending a meeting in a conference room.)

3. Ring Topology: A closed loop where data travels in one direction, passing through each device in turn. This offers high bandwidth and fault tolerance, but adding or removing devices requires disruption. (Think of a circular conveyor belt delivering packages.)

4. Mesh Topology: This is the most complex, with devices interconnected with multiple connections. This provides high redundancy and resilience but requires extensive cabling and configuration. (Imagine a network of roads connecting cities, offering multiple routes.)

The Outsider:

Now, let's bring in the "odd one out": Tree Topology.

Why Tree Topology Doesn't Fit In:

Tree topology resembles a hierarchical structure, with a single root node branching out to multiple levels. While it offers centralized control and efficient management, it is not as common as the other four. It is often used for larger network structures, where segments of the network are combined to form a hierarchy.

Here's why Tree Topology isn't as ubiquitous as the other four:

• Complexity: While similar to bus topology, tree topology introduces added complexity with its hierarchical structure. This requires meticulous planning and configuration for efficient operation.
• Single Point of Failure: Although multiple paths exist in the hierarchy, the root node remains a single point of failure, disrupting the entire network if it goes down.
• Limited Scalability: Adding or removing devices within a tree topology can be challenging and potentially disrupt the entire network.

In Conclusion:

While all these topologies play crucial roles in networking, Tree Topology stands out as less commonly encountered compared to the other four. Its hierarchical nature and potential drawbacks make it a more specialized solution, while the others offer broader applicability and wider adoption in modern networking environments.

Sources:

• GitHub - Network Topologies
• Network Topology Types: Advantages and Disadvantages

Further Exploration:

For deeper understanding, explore the various network topologies and their real-world applications in detail. Understanding their advantages, disadvantages, and suitable use cases will enable you to choose the right topology for your specific networking needs.