Network Topology
What is Network Topology?

Network topology is usually represented by a line and object drawing that reflects the overall physical and logical topology.

There are two different types of network topologies:

  • Physical network topology is the placement of various components of a network. The different connectors represent the physical network cables, and the nodes represent the physical network devices (like switches).
  • Logical network topology illustrates, at a higher level, how data flows within a network.
Rear view of casual men working at desktop computer at standing desk in open modern office.
  • Network discovery tools
  • Discover a layer 2 network topology
  • Discover a layer 3 network topology
  • Discover a virtual network topology
  • Discover a wireless network topology
  • Network topology vs. network flows
Network discovery tools

Network discovery tools

Different tools can automatically build a network topology map of a layer 2 and/or layer 3 network. Also, most monitoring tools that use SNMP or other remote monitoring protocols can provide a network map.

Related topics

Network switch

Network security

Network management