Understanding Bus Topology: How it Works, Strengths & Weaknesses

Bus topology is a computer network topology that uses a single cable for media transfer. So, in practice this type of topology utilizes a central cable to connect all clients and servers. In addition, bus topology also means a type of topology that uses a single cable for transfer media.

Where every client that uses this topology will certainly be connected to each other with the existing server. Could be, this bus topology is a method for connecting 2 or more computers in a serial manner, using the main cable for the data traffic center. This topology is usually used for small scale networks.

Each network device will be directly connected to a single cable that is often referred to as a bus. This topology usually uses T connectors, terminators, and BNC. As for the data transmission media using coaxial cable, the same as the name suggests, the design of this network type circuit as on the bus.

Therefore, this type of topology is more often used by small companies. Because its characteristics are easily recognized. There is a single cable that is sure to extend across all networks, this cable is the backbone in every topology network. So, each network device will be connected by a T connector and divides the path so that the device is connected to the main cable.

What is a Bus Topology?

Understanding bus topology is a topology that is away in a computer network to connect a network to one another using a single cable that connects to the client and server. This bus topology method is used on small scale networks where all devices are connected to each other and form a bus, therefore it is called a bus topology.

The bus topology uses BNC cables and T connectors and terminators are provided at both ends. This topology is simple and easy to use, but until now the bus topology has been abandoned and is no longer in use because of its heavy data traffic which makes it very easy to damage and the direct network does not function if only one node is damaged.

Based on the understanding of the bus topology, it can be concluded that the principle and function of the bus topology are with only one computer as the server and then the network is broken up with coaxial type cable so that later on each network and the connection has a bus for the connector.

Bus Topology Function

The function of this bus topology is actually to connect 2 or even more computer networks. That way, the computer network can exchange information. So, simply when viewed from the above understanding, the working principle of this topology is to become a server.

After that, the network will be split using a cable connection. That way, each computer network can have a bus into the connector. Utilization of this bus topology can be used to facilitate client and server connections that are in 1 network. Thus, the network becomes easier when wanting to share data information.

In addition, if there is one server that has the task to provide services to a small number of clients, then this bus topology can be utilized. Because this bus topology will be connected to each computer, it uses one long main cable and has many terminals. The main cable used will later become data traffic.

Nowadays, bus topologies are often used for computer networks. Because the function of the bus topology is actually the same as the function of the network topology in general, which is equally useful for connecting 2 computers. So that all can communicate and exchange information data easily and quickly.

The Characteristics of Bus Topology

The characteristic of a bus topology is that each computer connected to one network via a single cable will be the transmission medium. The single cable will later become a backbone that is useful as a data distributor.

Each end of the main cable is always attached to the terminator. This section will later be useful to stop the signal, while preventing signal collisions. You could say that bus topology is actually an assignment writing service technology. Because this topology only connects 1 cable to 1 line. Thus, no active equipment is needed in order to connect the terminal.

Every computer in this topology is actually not connected with other computer devices directly. However, each computer is connected by a single cable. This single cable will later be the path through which data. Usually, the end of the main cable that is connected in the terminator is useful as a signal stop.

That way, the signal will not reverse direction. Whereas for each end of the cable attached the connector usually has a power of 50 ohms. If a cable is broken, it can prevent other computers from exchanging information. When a problem arises, it’s usually difficult to identify it when using a bus topology.

How Bus Works

Next, talk about how it works, in fact in each bus topology network, all PC devices will be connected to the main cable. All computers can exchange data. Meanwhile, the main cable must be free when sending data. That means, this bus topology can work when other computers are not currently exchanging data.

This process can be done using a protocol that is often referred to as CSMA / CD. That means, thanks to this topology there will not be a data or signal collision in the main cable. In the process of sending data to another computer, the sending computer will broadcast in the form of a signal. So, it can be known when someone sends data to avoid colliding.

From here, the signal will later be spread throughout the network cable. Then, the signal starts checking every device on the network. If it turns out that the connected computer has the same IP address and MAC address as the destination address, it will make the computer able to receive signals.

However, if it turns out that the computer does not have the same MAC address and IP address, the incoming signal will be discarded. Now, from hereafter understanding the bus topology, its characteristics, and how it works, it is very necessary to understand the advantages and disadvantages. Where is more complete we will peel below!