P2P (Point-2-Point)
Is a basic form of topology. Good because it is simple, however at disadvantage because it only supports 2 nodes.
Bus (common medium)
Straight line of more than 2 nodes. Because of this multiple systems can be used, unfortunately data collisions are common.
Ring (with token)
A circular structure of nodes. There are no data collisions in this structure however it is reasonably slow and their are significant security issues such as interceptions.
Star
A structure with a central node. Extremely fast but can be catastrophic if central node fails it can be catastrophic.
Tree (hierarchical)
A hierarchical system where all nodes have a superior and they communicate between each other. This is good because the main node cannot be over loaded however it can be slow because there are circumstances where there is no direct communications.
Mesh (full and partial)
Mesh’s are good because they are very direct and link various nodes. However data collisions are common and they are very messy.
jmkibble 