A physical bus topology connects all networked devices to a single continuous cable. Data may pass directly from one station to another without first going through a hub or around the ring. In a logical bus topology all network communications are broadcast to the entire network. A star network is the most reliable, since the remaining segments of the star can still function if one segment goes bad. In a bus or ring topology, a bad segment can bring down the entire network.
Most networks are a hybrid of the three types.
A network s logical topology does not have to match its physical topology. For example, in most token ring networks the network may be set up as a phyical star, with the data and wiring passing through a hub. However, data are transmitted from workstation to workstation, passing through the hub, using the logical ring topology. LAN design involves an understanding of your physical environment, its operation, and how people will react to even small aesthetic changes. Understanding the Physical Layout of your Building Unfortunately, when buildings are designed, the LAN is seldom taken into account.