2. Bus Networks

This is one one of the simplest networks to connect.

A single cable joins all of the workstations, printer, file server and other components together. At each end of the bus is a 'terminator'. This is a piece of hardware which prevents signals bouncing back and forth (echoes).

Advantages

• Easy to install
• Easy to add extra workstations
• Uses less cable than a Star network
• Best choice for temporary networks

Disadvantages

• If there is a problem with the central cable, the entire network stops working
• If there are a lot of workstations on the network, data can travel slowly.
• Data collisions can happen as the network becomes busy
• Low security - every workstation can see all of the data in the network
• Limited cable length and a maximum number of workstations