Node
Any device that is connected to a network.
Network Topology
The arrangement or pattern in which all nodes on a network are connected.
Bus Topology
A network topology where all nodes are connected directly to a single central cable known as the backbone.
Backbone
The central cable in a bus topology that connects all nodes.
Terminator
Hardware installed at each end of a bus topology that prevents signal bouncing (echoes).
Data Collision
When two signals interfere with each other in a network, potentially causing network slow down.
Star Topology
A network topology where all nodes connect to each other through one or more central switches.
Central Switch
A device in a star topology that acts as a central point for communications between nodes.
Client-Server Network
A type of star network where communications are coordinated through a centralized server.
Peer-to-Peer Network
A star network where nodes communicate directly through a central hub/switch without a server.
Single Point of Failure
A situation in which the failure of a single component can lead to the failure of the entire network.
Performance Advantage of Star Topology
Higher performance due to shorter, more direct communication paths.
Disadvantages of Bus Topology
Whole network fails if the backbone cable is broken; increased chances of data collision.
Advantages of Star Topology
Failure of one node does not affect others; easy to add new nodes.
Cable Requirement in Star Topology
Requires plenty of cable, making it potentially expensive in large networks.
Advantages of bus topology
Cost-effective for small networks; requires less cable than other topologies; easy to set up and extend.