LAN Switching first-step

LAN Topologies

In Chapter 3, the implementation of the previous network topologies was discussed. This chapter discusses the more common topologies: the star, ring, and tree topologies. The chapter describes when use of one topology is better than another as well as the role (if any) that switches play in each topology.

There are differences between physical and logical topologies, just as there are differences between physical and logical networks. A physical topology is determined by the cabling that connects the network devices together, whereas a logical topology is determined by the traffic flow across the network.

Star Topology

The defining aspect of the star or hub-and-spoke topology is that all network devices are connected to a central ...