(1)LAN topologies
The type of connection for a LAN is called a “topology.”
The three types of LAN topologies are summarized below.
Topology
Bus
Star
Ring
Advantages
Drawbacks
Computers and peripherals branch off from
and connect to a single
transmission path called
a “bus.”
A failure with a
computer has
few ramifications on the
network.
Difficult to identify the
point of failure. Cost of
building this type of network is relatively high.
Computers and peripherals radially branch out
from and connect to line
concentration devices
such as hubs.
Easy to add
and move computers.
A failure with a hub or
other line concentration
device stops the entire
network.
Computers and peripherals are connected by a
ring-shaped transmission path.
Easy to identify
the point of failure.
A failure with even a
single computer or
transmission path stops
the entire network. The
cost of building this type
of network is relatively
high.
Star
Hub
Refer to “Chapter 9-4-1 2 (3) LAN components.”
Reference
Transmission path
A “transmission path” is a path used for
data communication. The width of the
transmission path determines the
amount of information that can be exchanged.
Technology element
Bus
Reference
Chapter 9
Description
Ring
(2)LAN standards
There are various standards for LANs, each specifying a certain type of
cable, topology, and access control. “Ethernet” is a typical LAN standard.
●Ethernet
“Ethernet” is the most popular international standard specification for
LANs. “Ethernet” was jointly developed by DEC, Intel, and Xerox, and
was later improved by the IEEE 802.3 Committee. It has now become an
international standard specification.
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