Network topology

Network topology is the physical or logical arrangement of nodes and links in a network. It determines how devices connect and how information can travel between them.

Computer network: A computer network is a set of interconnected devices that exchange data and share resources. Network topology describes the arrangement of connections within this broader system.
Routing: Routing is the process of selecting paths for data packets across interconnected networks. A topology constrains which paths routing protocols can select.
Bus network: A bus network connects multiple devices to a shared communication backbone. It is a simple topology whose shared backbone can become a single point of failure.
Network architecture: Network architecture is the high-level design of a network’s components, protocols, and interactions. Architecture includes topology but also specifies how the network operates.
Network node: A network node is a device or connection point that can send, receive, or forward data. Nodes are the endpoints and junctions whose arrangement defines a topology.
Network switching: Network switching forwards data through intermediate devices toward its destination. The arrangement of links determines how switches can forward traffic.
Star network: A star network connects each endpoint to a central device, such as a hub or switch. Its central connection point simplifies management but can concentrate failures.
Network protocol: A network protocol is a set of rules governing communication and data exchange between networked systems. Protocols govern communication behavior; topology describes connection arrangement.
Communication link: A communication link is a physical or logical channel that carries signals or data between network endpoints. Links form the connections whose pattern distinguishes one topology from another.
Broadcast domain: A broadcast domain is the set of devices that receive a broadcast frame sent within a network segment. Topology and switching choices determine which devices share broadcast traffic.

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