Linear Bus (Trunkline)

• consist of a main run of cable with a terminator at each end
• the file server, workstations, and peripherals are connected to the linear cable
• easy to connect a node to a linear bus
• less expensive, require less cable
• entire network shuts down if there is a break in the main cable
• difficult to identify the problem if the entire network shuts down
  

Star

• each node connected directly to a central network hub or concentrator
• a separate cable connects to each computer, and if one cable breaks, only a single computer should be affected
• the hub or concentrator manages and controls all functions of the network. It also acts as a repeater for the data flow
• easy to install and wire
• no disruptions to the network when connecting or removing devices
• easy to detect network problems
• more expensive, requires a hub and more cable length than a linear bus topology
• all nodes shut down if the hub or concentrator fails

Star Wired Ring (Token Ring)

• developed by IBM
• employ a special coded message called a token that the operating software passes in sequence to each computer on the network
• created for IBM-compatible computers
• 4 or 16 Mbps using twisted pair
  

Daisy-Chain

• similar to a bus, except the electrical signal is routed through each computer as it moves along the line
• easy to install
• entire network shuts down if there is a problem on a node
• mainly used on the Macintosh network
• slow
• not practical in multi-room network installations