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Network Topology

Physical layout of a network

Network Topology refers to the physical layout of a network. It defines the way that the network is arranged and how data is transmitted between different devices.
5 minutes 5 Questions

Network Topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices in a network. It defines how different nodes in a network are connected and how they communicate with each other. Physical topology describes the actual layout of network components including cables, devices, and connection …

Concepts covered: Physical Topology, Logical Topology

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CompTIA Network+ - Network Topology Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Network Topology

Question 1

What type of topology connects all devices in a circle?

Correct Answer: Ring Topology

Ring topology is the type of network topology where every device is connected to two other devices, forming a single continuous pathway for signals through each device - a ring. Data travels from device to device with each device along the way handling every packet. Because of this arrangement, the ring topology is the answer to the question. On the other hand, Bus topology is where all devices are connected to a single central cable, the bus. The main distinction is that it's a 'linear' arrangement. Star topology has a central node (like a switch or a hub) to which all other devices are connected - this does not form a circle. Finally, mesh topology is where every device is connected to every other device - this forms a web, not a circle.

Question 2

Which topology type connects devices in a closed loop and passes data from one device to the next until it reaches the destination?

Correct Answer: Ring Topology

The correct answer is Ring Topology. In a ring topology, devices are connected in a closed loop configuration and data is passed sequentially from one device to another until it reaches its destination. Therefore, it is the topology type that fits the description given in the question. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons: Mesh Topology connects all devices to each other for redundancy and fault tolerance, not in a closed loop. Bus Topology connects all devices along a single cable, which isn't passed from one device to another in a closed loop. Star Topology connects all devices to a central hub or switch, not in a sequential closed loop.

Question 3

What topology consists of a central device connected to many other devices in a star pattern?

Correct Answer: Star topology

The correct answer is Star topology. This topology consists of a central device, such as a switch or hub, connected to many other devices in a star pattern. Each device on the network has a dedicated point-to-point link only to the central device. In contrast, Bus topology is a type of network where every device is connected to a single cable (the bus). Ring topology forms a closed loop, with each device connected to two others, and has no central hub. Mesh topology, on the other hand, has each device connected directly to each of the others.

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