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ethernet ot networks

Ethernet Network Topologies


1. Star Topology

  • Description: In a star topology, each device (node) on the network is connected to a central device (such as a switch or hub). All data communication passes through the central hub.
  • Pros:
    • Easy to manage and troubleshoot due to the central point of control.
    • If one cable fails, only the connected device is affected, not the entire network.
    • High performance as each device has a dedicated connection.
  • Cons:
    • If the central hub fails, the entire network goes down.
    • Requires more cable than some other topologies.

2. Bus Topology
  • Description: In a bus topology, all devices are connected to a single central cable, known as the bus or backbone.
  • Pros:
    • Simple and cost-effective for small networks.
    • Requires less cable than star topology.
  • Cons:
    • If the central cable fails, the entire network is affected.
    • Performance decreases as more devices are added due to collisions and traffic.

3. Ring Topology
  • Description: In a ring topology, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a circular data path.
  • Pros:
    • Data packets travel in one direction, reducing collisions.
    • Predictable network performance.
  • Cons:
    • If one device or connection fails, the entire network can be disrupted depending on hardware.
    • More difficult to install and configure.

4. Daisy Chain Topology
  • Description: In a daisy chain topology, each device is connected in a series to the next device. It can be either linear or ring.
  • Pros:
    • Simple to connect and extend.
    • Requires less cable than star topology.
  • Cons:
    • If one device or connection fails, it can affect the entire network.
    • Difficult to manage and troubleshoot as network grows.

5. Mesh Topology
  • Description: In a mesh topology, each device is connected to every other device on the network, creating a highly redundant and fault-tolerant network.
  • Pros:
    • High reliability and redundancy.
    • Each connection can carry its own data load, providing high performance.
  • Cons:
    • Very expensive and complex to install and manage.
    • Requires a large amount of cable and network interfaces.
    • Maximum Run Length: Typically follows Ethernet standards, but can vary widely depending on the specific implementation and devices used.
    • More common in wireless networks

ethernet network typology


Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP)
  • Description: RSTP is an evolution of the original Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) designed to prevent network loops in Ethernet networks by dynamically managing the topology.
  • Pros:
    • Rapid convergence compared to STP, usually within a few seconds.
    • Backward compatibility with legacy STP.
    • Improves network resiliency and efficiency.
  • Cons:
    • More complex to configure than STP.
    • Requires compatible network devices.
  • Typical Use Cases: Used in larger, redundant network topologies to ensure loop-free, reliable connections, especially in enterprise environments.


Maximum Run Lengths for Common Ethernet Types
  • 10BASE-T: Up to 328 feet over twisted-pair cabling (Cat3 or higher).
  • 100BASE-TX: Up to 328 feet over twisted-pair cabling (Cat5 or higher).
  • 1000BASE-T: Up to 328 feet over twisted-pair cabling (Cat5e or higher).
  • 10GBASE-T: Up to 328 feet over twisted-pair cabling (Cat6a or higher).
  • 10BASE2 (Thinnet): Up to 607 feet over coaxial cable.
  • 10BASE5 (Thicknet): Up to 1640 feet over coaxial cable.
  • 100BASE-FX: Up to 1.24 miles over multimode fiber.
  • 1000BASE-SX: Up to 1804 feet over multimode fiber.
  • 1000BASE-LX: Up to 3.1 miles over single-mode fiber.

Conclusion

When designing or maintaining a OT network, choosing the right topology and understanding the constraints and benefits of each type is crucial. Daisy and Ring topologies are recommended in modern OT networks due to their reliability, relative simplicity, and lower cost while more complex topologies like mesh are reserved for scenarios requiring high redundancy and performance. Understanding protocols like RSTP is essential for ensuring efficient and loop-free network operations in larger and more complex setups.







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