Tree & Hybrid Topology (Fundamentals of Computer Networks)

 1.Tree Topology :

It has a root node and all other nodes are connected to it forming a hierarchy. It is also called hierarchical topology. It should at least have three levels to the hierarchy. 

 

• Features 

  • 1.  Ideal if workstations are located in groups 

  • 2.  Used in Wide Area Network 

   

• Advantages 

  • 1.  Extension of bus and star topologies. 

  • 2.  Expansion of nodes is possible and easy. 

  • 3.  Easily managed and maintained. 

  • 4.  Error detection is easily done. 

   

• Disadvantages 

•       1.  Heavily Cabled 

•       2.  Costly 

•       3.  If more nodes are added maintenance is difficult. 

•       4.  Central hub fails, network fails. 

2.Hybrid Topology :

It is two different types of topologies which is a mixture of two or more topologies.  

• For example if in an office in one department ring topology is used and in another star topology is used, connecting these topologies will result in Hybrid Topology (ring topology and star topology). 

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• Features 

  • 1.  It is a combination of two or topologies 

  • 2.  Inherits the advantages and disadvantages of the topologies included 

   

• Advantages 

  • 1.  Reliable as Error detecting and troubleshooting is easy. 

  • 2.  Effective. 

  • 3.  Scalable as size can be increased easily. 

  • 4.  Flexible. 

   

• Disadvantages 

  • 1.  Complex in design 

  • 2.  Costly