Networking Explained, Second Edition
An in-depth explanation of all things networking.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Networking Explained, Second Edition
Chapter 2: Network Topologies, Architectures, and the OSI Model
Overview
In this chapter we present several fundamental networking concepts. We begin with an overview of network topologies, giving examples of the two most general designs on which most topologies are based: point-to-point and broadcast. Next, we examine the concept of network architecture. As part of this discussion we introduce the idea of "layering" and present the Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) networking model as an example of layered architecture. We conclude the chapter with an introduction to TCP/IP and show how it relates to the OSI model. An outline of the material we discuss follows:
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Concept of Network Topologies (Questions 1 2)
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Point-to-Point Networks: Star, Loop, Tree (Questions 3 9)
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Broadcast Networks: Bus, Ring, Satellite (Questions 10 22)
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Multidrop Networks (Question 23)
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Circuit- and Packet-Switched Networks (Questions 24 32)
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Network Architectures (Questions 33 34)
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The OSI Model (Questions 35 41)
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Connection-Oriented and Connectionless Services (Questions 42 46)
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The TCP/IP Model (Questions 47 52)
Concept of Network Topologies
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What is a network topology?
A network topology is the basic design of a computer network. It is very much like a road map. It details how key network components such as nodes and links are interconnected. A network's topology is also comparable to the blueprints of a new home in which components such as the electrical system, heating and air conditioning system, and plumbing are integrated into the overall design.
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In which ways can nodes and links be interconnected?
There are three general interconnection schemes: point-to-point, broadcast, and multi-drop.
Point-to-Point Networks: Star, Loop, Tree
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