Hybrid topology

In short: A hybrid topology combines several basic forms, for example star, bus and ring, in one network.

In more detail: Real networks are rarely pure. A company network may be a star per floor, the floors are connected by a ring or tree, and the sites are linked as a partial mesh.

In Depth

• Example tree: a tree arises when several stars are connected through their centres. It is itself a hybrid form.
• Advantages: you take the suitable form for each part, can grow and build in reliability where it matters.
• Disadvantages: more complex to plan, document and maintain. Costs rise.
• In practice: almost all larger networks, including the internet, are hybrid.

See also: network topologies, full mesh topology, ring topology, bus topology