Question

On your own words, define different types of Computer Networks and Network Topology and discuss how it work.

Answer 1

Computer Network

Computer Network is a collection of computers, which are connected to each other in order to share the data and resources among them. It is the basis of communication in Information technology(IT).

A computer network is classified in mainly four categories depending on the size of the network :-

1. LAN ( Local Area Network ) :-

LAN is a computer network in which the group of computers are connected to each other in small area(Local Are) like building, office, school, etc.

2. PAN ( Personal Area Network ) :-

Personal Area Network is a network in which the computer are connected for the personal use of an individual. It range upto 10meters.

3. MAN ( Metropolitan Area Network) :-

A metropolitan area network is a network which covers a larger geographic area by interconnecting a different LAN to form a larger network. It has higher range then the LAN.

4. WAN ( Wide Area Network) :-

Wide Area Network is a network which extends over a large geographical area such as states or countries. It has higher range then MAN. The internet is one of the biggest WAN in the world.

Network Topology:-

Network Topology is the process of arranging the network devices and computer on an network. There are following network topologies :-

1. Point-to-Point :-

Point to Point network consists of two computers, connected each other with single piece of cable.

2. Bus Topology :-

In Bus topology, all devices are connected with single communication line or cable. Bus topology may have problem while multiple hosts sending data at the same time. Only one computer can use the communication channel at a time for sharing the data among them.

3. Star Topology :-

In Star Topology all the devices are connected to a central device(called as hub). This topology is known as star topology since, it resembles the shape of star. When data needs to be shared then sender will send the data to central device then from there data reaches the destination.

4. Ring Topology :-

In ring topology, every computer is connected with two other computers, in order to create a ring or circular structure. When one computer needs to send data to another computer then data is travelled in circluar path in order reach the destination computer.

5. Mesh Topology :-

In Mesh Toplogy, each computer is connected to every computer in the network through point to point connection.