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Star Topology

In Star Topology, all nodes are connected to a central node, called a
hub. The hub controls all communication between the nodes. Data
is transmitted and received across the network through the hub.
Star topology is easy to install and maintain, but if the central hub
fails, the entire network becomes unusable.

Mesh Topology

In Mesh Topology, every node is connected to all the other nodes in
the network. This topology is very stable and efficient. Even if one
connection fails, the others remain intact. Security is also high since
data travels over a dedicated connection.

Mesh topology requires long cables and is expensive. Adding new
nodes to the network is also difficult.

PROTOCOLS
Protocol is a set of rules that govern the communication among computers in a
network. The computers in a network have to follow similar protocol in order to
exchange data.
Some common protocols used in computer networks are:
• Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP): TCP/IP is the set
of protocols used to send and receive data packets over a network.
TCP is responsible for breaking down data into small packets before they can be sent over a
network and for assembling the packets again when they arrive at the destination.
IP is responsible for addressing and routing packets from a source computer to a destination
computer across the network.
• Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP): HTTP is used for transferring files on the World Wide Web.
• File Transfer Protocol (FTP): FTP is used for sharing files between computers over a network.
• Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP): SMTP is used for transferring email messages over the
network.

ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER NETWORKING
Some of the advantages of computer networking are:

1. File Sharing: Computer networks allow sharing of files and
databases among a large number of users. Users can easily
access the files stored on various computers in a network. This
helps the user save time and effort.

2. Resource Sharing: Computer networks allow users to share
resources, such as peripherals (printers, scanners, etc.) and
memory. This reduces the overall cost of these devices for an
organisation or an individual.

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