1. Assume six devices are arranged in a mesh topology. How many cables are needed?
How many ports are needed for each device?
n * (n-1)/2 = 6 * 5 / 2 = 15 cables.
Number of devices connected per device = n-1 = 5,
so number of ports per device = 5.
2. For each of the following four networks, discuss the consequences if a connection
fails.
a.Five devices arranged in a mesh topology
b.Five devices arranged in a star topology (not counting the hub)
c.Five devices arranged in a bus topology
d. Five devices arranged in a ring topology
In computer networking, a network Topology refers to the physical or logical
arrangement of network devices, such as computers, routers, and switches, and the
way in which they are connected to each other. There are several types of network
topologies, including star, bus, mesh, and ring topologies. Each of these topologies
has its own advantages and disadvantages, and a failure in any of the connections
can have different consequences.
Let's explore the consequences of a connection failure in each of the four common
network topologies:
1. Star Topology:
In a star Topology, all devices are connected to a central hub or switch. If one
connection fails, only the device connected to that particular port will be affected. The
rest of the devices will continue to operate normally. This is one of the advantages of a
star Topology as it is easy to isolate the faulty device and repair or replace it without
affecting the entire network. However, if the central hub or switch fails, then the entire
network will be affected, and communication between all devices will stop.
2. Bus Topology:
In a bus Topology, all devices are connected to a single cable, also known as the
backbone. If a connection fails, then all devices on that particular segment of the
network will be affected. Communication between the devices in that segment will
stop, and the rest of the network will continue to function normally. However, if the
backbone cable fails, then the entire network will be affected, and communication
between all devices will stop.
3. Mesh Topology:
In a mesh Topology, all devices are connected to each other, creating multiple
paths for data to travel. If a connection fails, data can still travel through alternative
paths, and communication between devices will continue. Mesh Topology provides
high redundancy, which means that there is a low probability of a single point of
failure causing a network outage. However, adding redundancy also increases the cost
of the network.
4. Ring Topology:
In a ring Topology, all devices are connected in a circular loop. If a connection
fails, then the entire network will be affected, and communication between all devices
will stop. In a ring topology, data travels in one direction only. Therefore, if a
connection fails, data cannot travel through alternative paths, and communication will
stop. However, ring Topology provides high speed and reliability, and it is also easy to
manage.
In conclusion, the consequences of a connection failure in a network depend on
the topology used. Each topology has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is
essential to consider these factors when designing a network. Choosing the appropriate
topology can help reduce the risk of network downtime and ensure smooth
communication between devices.
3. Match the following to one or more layers of the OSI model:
a. Format and code conversion services
b. Establishes, manages, and terminates sessions
c. Ensures reliable transmission of data
d. Log-in and log-out procedures
e. Provides independence from differences in data representation
Here are some matches for the OSI model layers and their functions:
Format and code conversion services: This function is performed by the
presentation layer. The presentation layer translates data into a form that the
application can accept, and formats and encrypts data for network transmission.
Establishes, manages, and terminates sessions: This function is performed by the
session layer. The session layer controls the dialogues between computers,
establishing, managing, and terminating connections between applications.
Ensures reliable transmission of data: This function is performed by the transport
layer. The transport layer provides reliable data transfer services to the upper layers.
Log-in and log-out procedures: This function is performed by the session layer.
Provides independence from differences in data representation: This function is
performed by the presentation layer.
4. Suppose a computer sends a frame to another computer on a bus topology LAN.
The physical destination address of the frame is corrupted during the
transmission. What happens to the frame? How can the sender be informed
about the situation?
If the corrupted destination address does not match any station address in the network, the
packet is lost. If the corrupted destination address matches one of the stations, the frame is
delivered to the wrong station. In this case, however, the error detection mechanism,
available in
most data link protocols, will find the error and discard the frame
If the corrupted destination address does not match any station address in the network, the
packet is lost. If the corrupted destination address matches one of the stations, the frame is
delivered to the wrong station. In this case, however, the error detection mechanism,
available in
most data link protocols, will find the error and discard the frame
If the corrupted destination address does not match any station address in the network, the
packet is lost. If the corrupted destination address matches one of the stations, the frame is
delivered to the wrong station. In this case, however, the error detection mechanism,
available in
most data link protocols, will find the error and discard the frame
If the corrupted destination address does not match any station address in the
network, the packet is lost. If the corrupted destination address matches one of the
stations, the frame is delivered to the wrong station. In this case, however, the error
detection mechanism, available in most data link protocols, will find the error and
discard the frame
