Network Topologies

When setting up a network, hardware devices such as a computer, printer and server. These devices can be used in conjunction with any variation of topologies depending on the need of usage and the available funds to afford the type of network a business might need. Most businesses just want to be able to use a network that is affordable and can get the job done. By using the topologies below can help in the selection process of the right network needed for a business. In all three topologies these same devices can be used which are just configured differently depending on the type of topology used. For instance, the bus configuration uses all the devices which are plugged in to a central cable that is ran between all the nodes as a "backbone" of sorts. The bus format is simple and very inexpensive which catches the eye of many businesses. By having all the devices plugged in to one main line, it makes it much easier to add new devices to the "backbone" when needed. Sometimes, this can be a problem as to the failure of this "backbone", if the cable fails the whole system can shut down and troubleshooting why it failed can pose a problem in itself. Still, this configuration is widely used in the business world for its cost and simplicity.

The ring topology consists of the device connected in a ring format starting with the first device (server) and ending with the last device in line with the first. This can prove helpful when a device fails as information can still be routed around the node which failed to continue transmissions throughout the system. Along with this technology, it comes with a price, and in turn can make some businesses shy away from this type of network. By using the star format, the devices used are individually connected to a central hub. This hub can route information from one device to the proper destination. Using this system can make upgrading easier by just having to make changes at the