What are hybrid networks?
In network terminology, a hybrid network (also called a hybrid network topology) combines the best features of two or more different networks. According to "Audit and Control of Information Technology", hybrid topologies are reliable and versatile. These provide a large number of connections and data transmission paths for users. The most real networks are the hybrids, according to "Readings on telecommunications and networks."
Network Basics
A network connects computers, scanners, printers and other equipment to make data transmission and communication more efficient. These interconnections are made with cables, such as fiber optic or copper. Networks allow users to send and receive information quickly, share resources and reduce costs. The physical layout of a network is called its topology. There are many types of topologies, including bus, star, ring and hybrid.
Types of hybrid networks
The two main types of hybrid networks are the star ring and star bus cable. A wired hybrid star ring network combines the physical design of a star network and the logical topology (or data flow) of a ring network. The wired star bus network uses the physical distribution of a star network and the data transmission of a bus network.
Hybrid Network Hardware Components
Common hybrid network components include routers, repeaters, hubs, bridges, switches, modems and cables.
Advantage
Hybrid networks offer multiple possibilities for data transmission between network nodes. The failure of any simple hardware component (such as a printer or a cable) does not affect network performance. In this case, the hybrid network avoids the affected node / cable and moves the data to an alternative transmission path. Hybrid networks are versatile and can adapt to a wide variety of network requirements and sizes.
Disadvantages
Hybrid networks are expensive, difficult to establish, extend and solve when problems arise. According to "CompTIA A + Complete Study Guide", a hybrid network requires more cabling between its nodes than other types of networks. Inconsistencies and errors in the individual nodes of a hybrid network are often difficult to isolate and repair. Efficient hybrid networks require smart points or centers of concentration. Smart hubs are designed to provide automatic fault isolation and processing. They constantly scan the network, collect information about all nodes, detect errors, isolate defective nodes and convert network traffic to alternate routes. Smart hubs, although efficient, are more expensive than liabilities and assets.