Network Topology Flashcards
(41 cards)
What is network topology?
The structure of a network, describing how nodes (devices) and links (connections) are arranged physically or how data flows logically.
What is physical topology?
The actual layout of devices and cables (e.g., devices connected to a switch with separate cables).
What is logical topology?
How data flows between devices, regardless of physical connections (e.g., all devices can communicate even if wired through a switch).
What is a point-to-point link?
A direct connection (physical or logical) between two nodes only, guaranteeing dedicated bandwidth (e.g., two routers connected directly).
Can a point-to-point link be logical?
Yes! Example: Two routers on a WAN might be physically far apart but act like they’re directly connected.
What defines a point-to-point link?
The 1:1 relationship between two nodes, regardless of physical distance or intermediate devices.
Why is bandwidth guaranteed in a point-to-point link?
Only two devices share the connection, so they don’t compete for bandwidth.
Example of physical topology?
Devices connected via cables to a central switch (star topology).
Example of logical topology?
All devices can communicate as if directly connected, even if physically wired through a switch.
How do physical and logical topologies differ?
Physical = actual hardware layout. Logical = data flow paths, regardless of physical setup.
What is a star topology?
A network where all devices connect to a central hub (e.g., router/switch). Easy to manage and troubleshoot.
What is a hub-and-spoke topology?
Same as a star topology but used for WANs (e.g., connecting a main office to branches).
What is a full mesh topology?
Every device connects directly to every other device. Rare due to high cost/complexity.
What is a partial mesh topology?
Only key devices have multiple connections. Provides redundancy without full complexity.
What is the formula for links in a full mesh?
n(n–1)/2, where n = number of devices.
What’s the difference between a client-server and P2P network?
Client-server has centralized servers (e.g., businesses); P2P has devices sharing directly (e.g., home networks).
What are network appliances?
Specialized devices (physical or virtual) like routers, firewalls, or switches.
What are network functions?
Features like VPNs (secure access) or QoS (prioritizing traffic like video calls).
What’s an intermediate node?
A device that forwards data (e.g., router, switch).
What’s an end system (host)?
A device that sends/receives data (e.g., laptop, phone).
What is a virtual appliance?
Software-based network device (e.g., a firewall running as a virtual machine).
What defines a network type?
Its size (number of devices) and scope (physical area covered).
What is a LAN?
A network in one location (e.g., home, office) using cables/Wi-Fi, managed by one owner.
Examples of LANs?
Home, SOHO (small office), SME (medium business), Enterprise (large company), Datacenter.
