Bus topology

Alternatively called line topology, bus topology is a network setup where each computer and network device is connected to a single cable or backbone. Depending on the type of computer network card, a coaxial cable or an RJ-45 network cable is used to connect them together.

The following sections contain both the advantages and disadvantages of using a bus topology with your devices.

Advantages of bus topology

• It works well when you have a small network.
• It’s the easiest network topology for connecting computers or peripherals in a linear fashion.
• It requires less cable length than a star topology.

Disadvantages of bus topology

• It can be difficult to identify the problems if the whole network goes down.
• It can be hard to troubleshoot individual device issues.
• Bus topology is not great for large networks.
• Terminators are required for both ends of the main cable.
• Additional devices slow the network down.
• If a main cable is damaged, the network fails or splits into two.

Related information

• Network and network card help and support.

Bus, Network terms, Peripheral, Star topology, Topology