5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Tree Topology | Drawbacks & Benefits of Tree Topology

What is Tree Topology ?

Tree topology is a network topology where star and bus topologies are combined together. As the name suggest it follows a hierarchical pattern similar to a tree. The backbone cable resembles that of a trunk and all the star networks are like branches. 

Where is Tree Topology used ? 

It is basically composed of a group of computers with star topology networks that is connected to the backbone cable of a bus topology. Today it is the networking architecture used behind various computer programs, computer networks and cable TV networks. One of the unique nature of tree topology is its ability to connect two nodes using a single connection. For this purpose it can use a fiber, coaxial, or twisted cables. 

Who uses Tree Topology ?

Tree topology on default has many servers. It is best suited for the organizations that prefer large network. Although tree topology is considered to be the most simplest network, it aren't flawless. It is with limitations too. When using this strategy for a computer network, it is worth considering the merits and demerits.

In this article, I will be listing out the 5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Tree Topology | Drawbacks & Benefits of Tree Topology. Through this post, you will know the pros and cons of using tree topology. 

Let's get started,

Advantages of Tree Topology

1. Scalability

Expanding a tree topology network is an easy process even if there is no much space available. Tree topology network follows a hierarchical pattern that allows the network to add many secondary nodes. As long as there are enough hubs, more computers can be easily added for each of these hubs.

2. Robustness

Since tree topology is divided into segments, the failure of a single workstation will not hinder the operation of others. Even in the failure of a hub, the network can still continue to function. But not when the backbone cable experiences any failure. The main backbone cable is the part where entire network is based on.

3. Troubleshooting

Error detection and troubleshooting is a straightforward process in a tree topology network. Due to the simple architecture of tree topology, it makes it easier for the problem identification to take place. In case of a disconnection, administrators can easily identify the place where it occur without wasting much time.

4. Cable Requirement

When installing a tree topology network there is no much cables required. There exists a single backbone cable that runs common for all the segments. And each of the tree networks are allocated with point to point wiring to ensure low latency and high bandwidth.

5. Device Support

Tree topology is one of the best options to consider when adding new devices. The hybrid approach that exists in this network allows the support from various manufacturers. This also makes sure that the administrators can easily gain access to the devices for the maintenance and other works.

Disadvantages of Tree Topology

1. Installation

Installation is a factor which limits the use of tree topology networks. Since tree topology incorporates both star and bus networks, the cabling requirements are going to be massive. This makes the installation procedure of tree to be the most difficult and costly.

2. Cost

Another consideration of tree topology is its cable length. Tree topologies are on default limited to a certain length during the creation of point to point connections. This makes it more difficult for it to get wired. Despite of this, if the network needs to be expanded, the wiring requirements are going to be high which can increase the overall expenses.

3. Security

Tree topology is also extremely weak in terms of security. All the workstations connected in a tree topology system are interconnected to each other. Which means that whatever the data that passes along the network can be accessed by each and every computer. If a hacker manages to take control of a workstation, they can easily compromise the entire network system.

4. Maintenance

Since tree topology is generally large in size, maintaining and configuring it is a difficult task. It takes a lot of time to manage individual star networks, point to point connections and identify faults. This is the reason why many large organizations today less prefer tree topology during network implementation.

5. Reliability

The entire network of tree topology depends on the backbone cable. In case if the backbone cable undergoes any failure, the parts of the segment will get affected. The level of failure depends on the point at which it occurred. If the damages appears to be before a specific branch, all the segments before it will have a problem functioning, while other remain to communicate normal.