Network Topology| Israh Binoj

Network topology means the arrangement of a computer network in a geometric structure. It defines how computer networking devices communicate effectively with each other. It shows the arrangement of nodes and links, such as devices and connections. It also describes how the connections work - whether physically or logically.

There are two main types of network topology:

1. Physical Topology: The physical arrangement of devices and cables.

2. Logical Topology: The path that data follows within a network.

Physical Topology
It is the physical appearance of how a network looks - the actual layout of cables, switches, computers, and other devices.
It shows the physical connections between devices using wires, fiber optics, or wireless links.
In simple words, it is the outline or map of how a network is physically arranged.

Operates in the physical layer
Purpose: To install and design the physical network

Types of Physical Topology

1. Bus Topology:
   All devices share one main cable.

2. Star Topology:
   All devices connect to a central hub or switch.

3. Ring Topology:
   Devices form a circle; data moves in one direction.

4. Mesh Topology:
   Every device connects to every other device.

5. Tree Topology:
   Star networks joined in a tree shape.

6. Hybrid Topology:
   Mix of two or more topologies.

Logical Topology

Logical topology explains how data actually flows through a network. More than the physical layout, it focuses on the working and communication of the network. It defines the path of data packets and how they move between devices.
Data may travel in a different pattern than the physical connections, so logical topology shows the actual flow of data within the network.

Operates in the data link or network layer
Purpose : To understand and control how data moves.

Types of Logical Topology

1. Logical Bus:
   All devices share the same communication line.

2. Logical Ring:
   Data travels in one direction around a loop.

3. Logical Star:
   Data passes through a central device like a hub or switch.

4. Logical Mesh:
   Data can take many paths to reach its destination.

Conclusion

Physical topology shows how a network looks, and logical topology shows how it works. Both together make a network clear, connected, and complete.