What is meant by network topology?

Network topology refers to the arrangement of different elements within a network. This includes how various devices, such as computers, servers, switches, and routers, are interconnected and how they communicate with each other. There are different types of topologies, including star, bus, ring, and mesh, each defining a specific physical or logical layout of the network as well as implications for performance, reliability, and scalability. Understanding network topology is crucial because it impacts the design, functionality, and efficiency of the network. Identifying the right topology based on the needs of the network can significantly affect its overall performance and the ease of managing and troubleshooting it.