A router is the most efficient device at moving packets between similar network topologies. Routers operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and are designed to determine the best path for packets to travel based on destination IP addresses. They use routing tables to make these decisions and can handle different types of network topologies, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and fiber optic networks, making them versatile and efficient for packet forwarding.
Network Topology decides how Devices on a Network will be interconnected. General used Topologies are BUS, RING & STAR Topologies.
Network topologies is the means in which a network is structured. There are two types being physical and logical. Logical topology shows how data is delivered between a network.
Physical topology refers to the physical layout of devices and cables in a network. It defines how devices are connected to each other and how data flows between them. Common physical topologies include bus, star, ring, mesh, and hybrid.
Ring - A ringtopology connects neighboring nodes until they form a ring. Signals travel in one direction around the ring. In ring topologies, each device on the network acts as a repeater to send the signal to the next device
The devices that establish transmission paths between their own terminal devices on a flexible basis are typically known as network switches or routers. These devices manage data traffic within a local area network (LAN) or between different networks, enabling dynamic routing of information based on current network conditions. They can adapt to changes in network topology, ensuring efficient communication between devices as needed.
I found and linked below a website that has information on many, but not all, network topologies.
Network topologies are connected through various physical and logical arrangements of nodes (devices) and the links (cables or wireless connections) that join them. Common types include star, ring, bus, mesh, and hybrid topologies, each dictating how data travels between nodes. For instance, in a star topology, all nodes connect to a central hub, while in a mesh topology, each node connects to multiple others for redundancy. The choice of topology affects network performance, reliability, and scalability.
When a network combines two or more types of network topologies, it is referred to as a hybrid topology. This approach leverages the strengths of various topologies, such as star, ring, or bus, to optimize performance and reliability. Hybrid topologies can be tailored to meet specific needs of the network, accommodating diverse requirements and improving scalability.
star topology
Star topologies. Sometimes combined topologies are used of which i have no idea!! :P
A network or the network's layout. How different nodes in a network are connected to each other and how they communicate are determined by the network's topology. Topologies are either physical or logical. Below are diagrams of the five most common network topologies.
Mesh topologies connect devices with multiple pathways, allowing for multiple routes for data transmission, which enhances reliability and fault tolerance; if one connection fails, others can maintain network functionality. In contrast, ring topologies connect devices in a circular manner, where each device is connected to two others, creating a single pathway for data to travel. This can lead to quicker data transmission but poses a higher risk if one connection fails, as it can disrupt the entire network. Overall, mesh provides greater redundancy, while ring offers simplicity in structure.