When it comes to designing a network, it's essential to consider the type of topology that will best suit your customers' needs. A network topology is the arrangement of the various elements (links, nodes, etc.) of a computer network. It describes the logical and physical relationship between all the nodes, devices, and connections in your customers' networks. Finding the right design for your customers' networks depends on the overall size of each network and your specific objectives.
A great way to plan ahead is to use a network topology mapping tool to develop the network design to be used. This means that you can plot your network in a diagram to see its topological structure in one place. SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper is an example of such a tool that can automatically detect devices connected to your network and help you visualize the topology of your customers' networks.
Types of Network Topologies
There are several types of network topologies, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.Here are some of the most common ones:
Bus Topology
A bus topology is a type of network in which all devices are connected to a single cable that runs from one end of the network to the other. This type of topology is mainly used for small networks and is referred to as linear bus topology when it has exactly two endpoints. Each node connects to a core network device such as a hub, switch, or computer.Ring Topology
In a ring topology, all nodes are connected in a circular fashion. The device then sends the frame to the network and travels it around the ring until it reaches its destination.This type of topology must be constantly managed to ensure that all nodes in the network are in good standing.
Hybrid Topology
A hybrid topology is a combination of two or more different types of network topologies. Each topology that is part of the hybrid topology will need to be managed according to its unique network requirements.Mesh Topology
In a mesh topology, each node is connected to every other node in the network. This type of topology is ideal for large networks as it provides redundancy and fault tolerance.Conclusion
The number of nodes you have in your network will determine if you can do this using a bus topology or if you need to implement a more complicated hybrid or mesh configuration. If you're planning to expand your network infrastructure in the future, make sure you're using a network that's easy to add devices to.Network device discovery is the process of identifying all computers and other devices located on the network. The topology of the computer network plays an essential role in determining the performance, reliability, and scalability of the network.
