Topologies for Simple Internetworks

The topology of a wide-area internetwork describes the way the transmission facilities are arranged relative to the locations they interconnect. Numerous topologies are possible, each offering a different mix of cost, performance, and scalability. More subtly, some functional specialization may be introduced by topology that has a direct bearing on the transmission facilities.

Some of the more simple topologies are

  • Peer-to-peer

  • Ring

  • Star

  • Partial mesh

Each of these is described and illustrated throughout the rest of this section. Their relative cost, performance, scalability, and technology implications are also examined.

Peer-to-Peer Topology

A peer-to-peer WAN can be developed using leased private lines ...

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