Network Topologies

Question 1

What is a ring network?

Answer 1

Consists of a number of nodes connect together without the need for a file server. Each node is connected to two other adjacent nodes. All data travels in only one direction.

Question 2

What are the advantages of a ring network?

Answer 2

-avoids collisions
-cheap to set up

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of a ring network?

Answer 3

-it is difficult to add nodes as the existing cables have to be severed
-a broken connection in the main cable will cause the network to fail
-the more nodes, the slower the network

Question 4

What is a bus network?

Answer 4

All nodes are connected to the main cable. Data can be transmitted in both directions. Every node can transfer data directly to another node.

Question 5

What are the advantages of a bus network?

Answer 5

-the network can still operate if one node fails
-easy to add nodes

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of a bus network?

Answer 6

-if more nodes are added, the network becomes slower
-collisions can occur

Question 7

What is a star network?

Answer 7

There is a central file server and each node is connected to the file server by its own cable. The host computer controls all communication.

Question 8

What are the advantages of a star network?

Answer 8

-if a node fails the whole network can still operate
-adding a new node is easy

Question 9

What are the disadvantages of a star network?

Answer 9

-if the file server manfunctions, the whole network will fail.