Step 1: Understanding Network Topologies:
Network topology defines the physical or logical arrangement of links and nodes within a computer network. Basic topologies include Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh, and Hybrid configurations.
Step 2: Analyzing the Tree (Hierarchical) Topology:
A
Tree Topology is a specialized hybrid topology that combines the characteristics of linear bus and star topologies.
- It is structured in a hierarchical tree-like structure, starting from a root node (parent) branching out to intermediate nodes, which then connect to leaf nodes (children).
- It organizes the network into distinct levels of hierarchy, allowing easy expansion. Each branch or sub-branch can operate as its own individual basic topology (such as a local star network).
Step 3: Evaluating the Options:
Among the options, Star (A), Ring (B), and Bus (C) represent non-branching, non-hierarchical flat topologies. Only the
Tree (D) topology matches the description of a branching, hierarchical system.