ANU UG 1st Sem Computer Fundamentals Lab Experiment 2 — Network Topoloy

 Aim:

To identify the type of computer network topology used in the institution and prepare detailed notes on its structure, working, and advantages.

Objective:

• To study the physical and logical layout of the computer network used in the institution.
• To understand different types of topologies such as Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh, and Hybrid.
• To analyze how computers and devices are interconnected in the campus network.
• To develop the ability to diagrammatically represent the institution’s topology.

Apparatus / Requirements:

• Access to computer laboratory and networking area.
• Network cables (UTP, STP, Fiber)
• Switches / Hubs / Routers
• Network diagram drawing tools (MS Visio, Draw.io, or by hand)
• Institutional floor plan (optional)

Theory:

A network topology refers to the arrangement of computers, cables, and networking devices within a network. It defines how the nodes (computers, printers, switches, routers, etc.) are interconnected and communicate with each other.

Types of Network Topologies:

Type	Description	Example Use
Bus Topology	All computers share a single communication line (backbone). Data travels in both directions.	Small temporary networks
Star Topology	All devices are connected to a central device (hub/switch). If one link fails, others remain unaffected.	Common in LANs and labs
Ring Topology	Each device connects to two others forming a ring. Data passes in one direction.	Token Ring LANs
Mesh Topology	Each node is connected to every other node. Offers high redundancy and reliability.	WAN / Backbone networks
Hybrid Topology	Combination of two or more topologies (e.g., Star-Bus, Star-Ring).

Procedure:

1. Visit your institution’s computer laboratory or server room.
2. Observe how the computers and switches are interconnected.
3. Identify the central device — hub, switch, or router.
4. Trace the connection lines and note whether each computer is connected directly or through other devices.
5. Sketch the network layout in your record.
6. Identify whether it resembles a Star, Bus, Ring, Mesh, or Hybrid topology.

7. Prepare notes explaining:

• The type of topology used.
• Number of nodes and devices.
• Advantages and limitations in your setup.

Observation Table:

Location	No. of Computers	Network Device Used	Connection Type	Identified Topology
Computer Lab 1	40	2 Switches (24-port)	Ethernet (CAT-6)	Star
Administrative Block	20	1 Router + Switch	Ethernet	Star
Overall Campus	Multiple labs connected via main server	Router Backbone	Hybrid (Star-Bus)

Result:

After observation, it was found that the network topology of the institution is Hybrid, primarily consisting of Star Topology within each lab connected by a Bus/Backbone network between departments.