Network topologies (star, bus, ring, mesh) in Computer Networks - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a star topology in networking?

A star topology connects all devices to a central device called a hub or switch. Each device has its own cable to the center, making it easy to manage and isolate problems.

beginner

How does a bus topology work?

In a bus topology, all devices share a single communication line or cable. Data travels in both directions, and each device listens for data addressed to it.

beginner

Describe the ring topology.

A ring topology connects devices in a circular way. Data travels around the ring in one direction, passing through each device until it reaches the destination.

intermediate

What is a mesh topology and its main advantage?

A mesh topology connects every device to every other device directly. This provides high reliability because if one connection fails, data can take another path.

beginner

Which topology is easiest to troubleshoot and why?

Star topology is easiest to troubleshoot because each device connects to a central point. If one device or cable fails, it does not affect others, making problems easier to find.

In which topology do all devices share a single communication line?

A Bus topology

B Star topology

C Ring topology

D Mesh topology

In bus topology, all devices connect to one main cable and share it for communication.

Which topology forms a closed loop where data travels in one direction?

A Star

B Bus

C Ring

D Mesh

Ring topology connects devices in a circle, and data moves around the ring in one direction.

What is the main benefit of mesh topology?

A Single cable for all devices

B Simple wiring

C Uses a central hub

D High reliability through multiple paths

Mesh topology connects devices directly to many others, so if one link fails, data can use another path.

Which topology is most vulnerable to a single cable failure affecting the entire network?

A Star

B Bus

C Mesh

D None

In bus topology, if the main cable breaks, the whole network can fail.

In star topology, what device usually connects all other devices?

A Switch or hub

B Modem

C Repeater

D Router

A switch or hub acts as the central point connecting all devices in a star topology.

Explain the differences between star, bus, ring, and mesh network topologies.

Think about how devices connect and how data travels in each topology.

Describe a real-life situation where a mesh topology would be better than a bus topology.

Consider situations where network failure is not an option.