What is Hybrid Topology?

A hybrid topology is defined as a network topology that combines two or more different network topologies. A hybrid topology can be a combination of bus topology, ring topology and mesh topology. The selection of different types of network topologies combined together depends upon the number of computers, their location, and the required performance. In the hybrid topology network sections consist of a configuration of different types of network topologies. The structure of hybrid topology is more complex but offers various advantages such as flexibility and fault tolerance.

Working of Hybrid Topology

• Hybrid topology in computer networks is a combination of more than one topology.
• This hybrid topology makes use of standards such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet for performing its different operations.
• The functioning of hybrid topology depends upon various types of hybrid routers used such as switches and hubs as they can easily connect the devices that are connected over wired or wireless networks.
• The hybrid topology has different network branches and each branch as its own unique design.
• The functioning takes place by gaining various benefits of the both of the different topologies used.

Types of Hybrid Topologies

1. Star-Ring Hybrid Topology

Star-Ring Hybrid Topology

The combination of star and ring topology forms a star-ring topology. Two or more than two star topologies are connected together through a ring topology using a wired connection. The flow of data in star-ring topology is bidirectional or unidirectional. If any node of the original ring topology gets fail the bidirectional data flow provides with the surety that there will be no effect on the rest of the data in network flow.

2. Star-Bus Hybrid Topology

Star-Bus Hybrid Topology

The combination of star and bus topology is known as star-bus hybrid topology. Two or more star topologies are connected together with the help of bus topology through a wired connection. The bus topology can interrelate different star topologies and offers with a backbone structure. The entire network is not affected in case of any node failure. The failed node can be then easily replaced and offers with a easy way for adding or deleting the nodes. The overall network can be easily modified according to the need.

3. Hierarchical Network Topology

Hierarchical network topology is designed like a hierarchical tree and also known as network tree topology. Hierarchical network topology is a combination of star-ring hybrid topology and star-bus hybrid topology. The maximum level of hierarchical network topology is known as root node or parent node. The sub-nodes of parent node are known as child nodes. The last nodes that does does not have any child are known as leaf nodes.

Advantages of Hybrid Topology

Below are the advantages of hybrid topology:

• Adding a new node or deleting the existing node is easy in hybrid topologies.
• Hybrid topology is more secure, reliable, and scalable as compared to individual star, ring and mesh topology.
• Error detection and troubleshooting is easier in hybrid topology.
• When an organization has a large geographical area utilizing hybrid topology is considered as better option.
• Traffic with large volume is handled easily by the hybrid topology.
• The overall performance and speed is greater in hybrid topology.

Disadvantages of Hybrid Topology

Below are the disadvantages of hybrid topology:

• The design and implementation of hybrid network topology is difficult.
• More number of cables and other physical devices are required for hybrid topology.
• The process of installation of hybrid topology is difficult.
• The overall implementation, setup and process of hybrid topology is much more costlier. 
  

FAQs on Hybrid Topology

Q.1: Name the applications where hybrid topology is used?

Answer:

Hybrid topology is used in various business such as finance sector, educational organisations and research centers.

Q.2: Can hybrid topology used for all the types of networks?

Answer:

No, hybrid topology is mainly used for complex networks that have varying requirements and applications where fault tolerance is important.

Q.3: Does hybrid topology consists of both wired and wireless connections?

Answer:

Yes, hybrid topology is a combination of both wired and wireless connections. Both are used together according to the requirements of the user.

Q.4: What is the difference between fully meshed topology and a hybrid topology?

Answer:

The difference between fully meshed topology and a hybrid topology is that a fully meshed topology connect each device with the other available device in the network whereas a hybrid topology consists of a combination of two or more different topologies and every device in the network is connected to other devices.

Q.5: Does hybrid topology provide Quality of Service (QoS)?

Answer:

Hybrid topology provides with Quality of Service (QoS) by properly configuring all the routers and other networking devices in the network.