Comprehensive Guide to Networking Theory and Topologies

Fault Tolerance

Reliability of a network. Ensures that the network continues to operate smoothly in the event of component failures or malfuctions.

Spine and leaf

2-layer topology where leaf switches connect to servers and end devices, while spine switches act as the high speed core backbone and every leaf switch connects to every spine switch to create redundant paths.

Point to point

Type of topology what consists of a single connection between two devices

MESH

Topology in which there is an extensive use of cabling, if one cable fails, another will take over the traffic and it is one the the most expensive topologies.

Hybrid

mixed topologies

Topology

Way in which the network components are arranged and connected.

Hub and Spoke

Topology in which the central hub is connected to multiple satellite nodes. The nodes are connected to the hub but not directly to each other.

Network

A group of 2 or more computers connected to one another.

WAN

Devices connected across a wide geographic area

Scalibility

How easy it is to grow a network

Latency

Speed of a network

Star

Type of topology that is best for small to medium networks like homes and small officies. Each workstation is connected to a central switch/hub/server, but not to each other

LAN

Devices connected inside an office, building or small geographic area.

Ring

Everything is connected from one object to the next and data travels in a circular path. If one computer switch, or server fails the entire system fails cause the ring is broken.

Bus topology

All computers, switches, and servers are connected to a single cable called the backbone or the bus. There may be collisions from data being transmitted under this topology.