Drawing and Comparing Star and Bus Topologies

Drawing and Comparing Star and Bus Topologies

Star Topology

Diagram:

      (Hub/Switch)
       /  \
      /    \
     /      \
    /        \
   /          \
  /            \
  |           |
  |           |
  |           |
  Computer   Computer

Description:

• All devices connect directly to a central hub or switch.
• Data flows through the hub/switch to reach its destination.
• Example: Ethernet network with a central router or switch.

Advantages:

• Easy to add or remove devices: Simply connect or disconnect from the hub/switch.
• Fault isolation: If one device fails, it doesn't affect the rest of the network.
• High performance: Data can travel directly to its destination without passing through other devices.

Disadvantages:

• Centralized point of failure: If the hub/switch fails, the entire network goes down.
• Expensive: The hub/switch can be costly.

Bus Topology

Diagram:

         (Bus Cable)
         |
         |
       /  \
      /    \
     /      \
    /        \
   /          \
  |           |
  |           |
  |           |
  Computer   Computer

Description:

• All devices are connected to a single cable (the bus).
• Data travels along the cable and is picked up by the destination device.
• Example: Older Ethernet networks using coaxial cable.

Advantages:

• Simple and inexpensive: Requires only a single cable.
• Easy to install: Simply connect devices to the bus cable.

Disadvantages:

• Single point of failure: If the bus cable breaks, the entire network goes down.
• Difficult to troubleshoot: Difficult to identify the source of a problem.
• Low performance: Data must travel through all devices on the bus, even if not intended for them.

Comparing Star and Bus Topologies

Conclusion:

Star topology is generally preferred for most modern networks due to its superior performance, reliability, and scalability. However, bus topology can be a cost-effective option for small networks with limited needs.