Identify network systems and their components

Explain network topologies and their evolution FIT03.01 Explain network topologies and their evolution

Network Topology Refers to shape of a network, or the network’s layout How different nodes in the network are connected to each other How they communicate Topologies are either physical (You can touch device. hub, switch, router etc…) or logical (how it works on the inside of the hub, switch, router etc…)

Basic Components of a Network Sharing Either resources or information has to be shared (ex. Printers, Scanners, Files, Music, Applications) Line of communication Transmission media Wire technology (ex. Ethernet, Coaxial, Fiber Optic) Wireless technology (ex. Bluetooth, WIFI, Satellite) Rules Governed by protocols An agreed upon format of signals for sending data between two components (ex. TCP/IP used by Windows. AppleTalk used by Apple)

Bus Topology Network Has been around longer than any other type The attraction of the bus network is its simplicity A bus is simply the path data takes to move from one location to another Most have Terminators at both ends of network In network topology, it refers to a layout that connects all devices in line with one another The disadvantage is that they are difficult to manage Bus Topology

Star Topology Network Star Topology Several computers or other devices interconnect to one another over a hub or switch. What makes the star such a beautiful concept is that it is modular. It can be made as big and complex as you want by connecting multiple hubs or switches together. A disadvantage may be the complex cabling scheme when you connect more than one hub or switch together.

Ring Topology Network A circle or ring of computers connected by a cable There are no terminated ends of the cable The signal travels around the circle in a clockwise direction A signal is transferred sequentially via a “token” from one station to the next A disadvantage if any cable is broken then data is not shared. Only the computer with the token can send data. The rest have to wait until data is sent and they receive the token. Token Ring

Mesh Topology Every device on the network is physically connected to every other device on the network The mesh can be either a full mesh or a partial mesh The full mesh is where everybody has a physical connection to everybody. In the partial mesh, there are a few nodes that connects to all others The Disadvantage is vary expensive due to amount of wires needed. And each computer needs an expensive NIC to transmit data to everyone. Five Node Mesh Network

Tree Topology Each device is connected to its own port on a concentrator in the same manner as in a Star Concentrators are connected together in a hierarchical manner Disadvantage if the backbone cable is broken then the whole network is down.

Evolution of the Network Several factors have affected the evolution of Computer Communication since the early 1960s. The growth of the computer industry (More and more devices are able to connect to networks and share information.) The advancement of cell phone technology (Smart phones are able to send and receive information from there home or work network. Replacing old printers on a LAN with high-speed network printers (Printers no longer have to be connected directly to the Computer to print. Printers are now a network device through cable or wireless.)

Future Implications for the Network The main advantage of Networking is the capability to share resources. Files, printers, fax, and the Internet are all resources. Expensive peripherals such as color laser printers can also be shared rather than one machine using a printer on its own. Each user/computer/smart phone on the network has the potential to access data stored on other machines.