Ring Network Configuration
Uses a closed-loop configuration and each device is directly connected to one on either side of it. Data travels in one direction along the cable. Cambridge ring is an example of a ring network

Advantages

  • High speed transmission
  • No dependence on central device

Disadvantages

  • Repeater to boost signal may be required - Lack of security
  • Cabling difficult to connect Break causes all work-stations to fail

Star Network Configuration
a star network has a common central hub. Each workstation is attached by its own cable to the server. 10BaseT Ethernet is an example of a star network

Advantages

  • Easy to locate faults
  • Supports dumb terminals
  • Reliable - if one segment has a break it will only affect the node(s) on that link
Disadvantages
  • Complex software required
  • Each workstation is reliant on the server

Bus Network Configuration
Each node (a workstation or printer on the network) is daisy-chained (connected one right after the other) along the same backbone, similar to Christmas lights. Data passes up and down. Information sent from a node travels along the backbone until it reaches its destination node. Standard Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 networks implement a bus topology in which all devices are connected to a central cable with terminal box at end. Each end of a bus network must be terminated with a resistor to keep the signal that is sent by a node across the network from bouncing back when it reaches the end of the cable

Advantages

  • Cheap to install
  • Less cabling required

Disadvantages

  • No central control so data on the bus may be insecure
  • Workstations on other side of a fault will go down