Networking

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A **switch** is the network device that provides a central point for connecting devices within a network and manages data traffic between them. Here's how it works:

1. Central Connection Point: A switch serves as a hub where various devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, can connect to a network. It has multiple ports to accommodate these connections.

2. Intelligent Data Management: Unlike a hub, which simply broadcasts data to all connected devices, a switch is more intelligent. It keeps track of the MAC (Media Access Control) addresses of all devices connected to it. MAC addresses are unique identifiers assigned to network interfaces for communications on the physical network segment.

3. Efficient Data Transfer: When a device sends data over the network, the switch reads the data's destination MAC address and forwards it only to the specific port that connects to the destination device. This targeted approach reduces unnecessary data traffic, making the network more efficient and faster.

4. Improved Network Performance: By directing data only to its intended recipient, a switch helps minimize network collisions and congestion, improving overall network performance and reliability.

In summary, a switch connects network devices together and manages data traffic by intelligently forwarding data only to the required destination. This capability enhances network efficiency and is crucial for large and small networks alike.

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(a) i. Star topology: In a star topology, all the devices are connected to a central device called a hub or switch. The hub acts as a central point of communication and manages the flow of data between devices. Here is a labeled diagram of a star topology: ``` Device 1 Device 2 Device 3 | | | +-------------+-------------+ Hub | CPU ``` ii. Bus topology: In a bus topology, all the devices are connected to a single cable called a bus. The data transmitted by one device is received by all the devices on the network. Here is a labeled diagram of a bus topology: ``` Device 1 | Device 2 | Device 3 | +-------+ | Bus | +-------+ | CPU ``` iii. Ring topology: In a ring topology, all the devices are connected to form a closed loop. Data is transmitted in one direction around the ring, and each device acts as a repeater to amplify the signal and pass it on to the next device. Here is a labeled diagram of a ring topology: ``` +-----------+ | Device 1 | +-----------+ | +-----------+ | Device 2 | +-----------+ | +-----------+ | Device 3 | +-----------+ | +-----------+ | CPU | +-----------+ ``` (b) i. Advantage of Star topology: One advantage of a star topology is that it is easy to install and maintain. If a device fails or needs to be added, it can be easily replaced or added without affecting the rest of the network. Additionally, the hub or switch can be used to monitor and manage the network traffic, making it easier to troubleshoot any issues. ii. Advantage of Bus topology: One advantage of a bus topology is that it is relatively inexpensive to install and maintain. Since all the devices are connected to a single cable, it requires less cable and equipment than other topologies. Additionally, the bus topology is scalable, meaning new devices can be added to the network without significant disruption. (c) i. Disadvantage of Bus topology: One disadvantage of a bus topology is that it is vulnerable to network congestion and collisions. Since all the devices share a single communication channel, if multiple devices try to transmit data simultaneously, collisions can occur, causing delays and reducing the network performance. Additionally, if the bus cable fails, the entire network can be affected. ii. Disadvantage of Ring topology: One disadvantage of a ring topology is that it is also vulnerable to network congestion and failures. If a device or cable fails, the entire network can be disrupted. Additionally, adding or removing devices from a ring topology can be challenging and require significant network reconfiguration.