1.6 Compare and contrast network topologies, architectures and types.

Based on the picture, what kind of network topology is this and explain what this is.

This is a Star/Hub Topology. All devices connect to a single central point such as an ethernet switch and communicate to other devices on the network through that central point.

Based on the picture, what kind of network topology is this and explain what it is.

This is a mesh network. A mesh network makes a device connect to every other device. If a device went down, there would still be a way to communicate to other devices on the network and not rely on that one device for communication.

Based on the picture, what kind of network topology is this and explain what this is.

This is a spine and leaf network topology. This type of network has multiple distinct layers. The end devices connect to 1 or 2 leaf switches, while all leaf switches connect to the spine. This is used in datacenters to help traffic flow between servers and to allow traffic between any 2 leaf switches.

Based on the picture, what kind of network topology is this and explain what this is.

This is a Point to Point (PTP) network. It connects 2 devices that communicate only to each other. Common examples are 2 buildings connecting to each other.

In terms of network architecture, what is a 3 tier hierarchy?

A 3 tier hierarchy is a model that has 3 layers. These layers are the core layer, distribution layer and access layer. This type of model is the client-server model that focuses on traffic between client and servers.

True of False. A 3 tier hierarchy uses north-south traffic while a spine leaf network uses east-west traffic.

True. A 3 tier hierarchy is meant for client to server communication (north-south) while a spine leaf network is meant for server to server communication (east-west).

In terms of network architecture, what is a collapsed core?

A collapsed core combines the core and distribution layers together. This is smaller than a 3 tier hierarchy and less expensive, but offers little redundancy since there are fewer devices.