Topology is the soul of every network. It defines (1) which network nodes are inter-connected and (2) what types of communication facilities are employed. An experienced network designer first sythesizes an optimum topology before simulating the network to achieve additional performance insights. We will now illustrate some useful network topologies with hierarchy of nodes and links.

1. The star topologies are used for voice, broadband data and multimedia networks

2. The multidrop topologies are used for data (ATM/Broadband) and PCS networks