What is a Node in Networking? [Types, Topologies and More]

Computer networks facilitate communication and information exchange. At the heart of these networks are nodes. They are fundamental components that allow data to flow between devices.

Whether setting up a home or an enterprise network, understanding how nodes work is crucial to ensuring your network runs smoothly and efficiently. 

In this article, learn more about what a node is in networking and its types.

Roles of a Node in Networking

A node is any device that sends, receives, or processes data connected to a network. It can take various forms, including computers, servers, switches, routers, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Nodes are the backbone of any network infrastructure. They facilitate data movement and improve network operations' efficiency and reliability.

Think of nodes as delivery personnel, ensuring data packets are delivered accurately to the intended destinations in a network. Nodes have various uses in everyday situations, including:

• Sending messages
• Internet browsing
• Smart home control
• GPS navigation
• Online shopping
• Streaming entertainment
• Social media

Nodes in a computer network require some form of identification, such as an IP address or MAC address. 

Types of Network Nodes

Nodes can be categorized by network type or topology. How a network defines a node can change from one network to the next. 

Different types of nodes serve specific functions in the network. Here are the types of network nodes based on network and topology: 

Network Types

Nodes in a network are categorized according to the functions they provide. Look at a few different kinds of networks and their functions below.

Data Communications

Data communication devices are physical nodes or communication devices such as switches, routers, hubs, bridges, modems, and more.

These nodes are purpose-built to execute the line clock, signal conversion, and coding. There are three types of signals:

• Digital signal,
• Analog signal,
• Hybrid signal.

These devices work by turning data into digital signals. Signals reach recipients' devices via cables, wireless links, or satellites. Data or information can be represented through:

• text
• numbers
• images
• audio
• video.

Internet Nodes

Internet nodes are one of the most common categories of nodes in a computer network. Most physical network nodes are host devices with Internet Protocol (IP) addresses.

The internet network works by breaking down data into small pieces called packets. These packets are routed independently and reassembled at the destination.

Even with delays or congestion, data arrives swiftly and reliably.

LANs And WANs

A LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that covers a small area, such as an office building or a home. It connects devices within a limited area, allowing users to share data and communicate. 

On the other hand, a WAN (Wide Area Network) is a network that spans a larger geographical area, such as multiple cities or even countries. It connects various LANs, enabling communication and data.

Telecommunication Network

With terminal nodes, intermediate nodes, and interconnections, telecommunication network nodes enable terminal-to-terminal communication.

In fixed telephone networks, a node can be a public or private telephone center or a computer that provides an intelligent network service.

Many nodes in a cellular network connect mobile technologies, including:

1. Base Station Controller (BSC) - This manages mobile network functions like radio frequency, BTS transition, and call setup.
2. General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) - A mobile communications standard that operates on 2G and 3G networks to facilitate data transmissions at moderately high speeds.
3. Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) - Translates and forwards mobile user data traffic through the Service Gateway Support Node (SGSN) to the suitable network and vice versa.
4. Service Gateway Support Node (SGSN) - Responsible for two-way data packet exchange between mobile phone users and destination networks.

Cable System

Cable nodes are points where a cable television system (CATV) connects homes and businesses that share a fiber optic receiver.

Each fiber optic node indicates the number of residences or enterprises served by cables emanating from a specific fiber optic receiver.

These nodes distribute video channels from a network’s master headend to local communities.

Network Topology Types

Network topology is the arrangement, or pattern, in which all network nodes are connected. Topologies are categorized into two:

1. Physical Network Topology - Refers to the physical connections (wires, cables, etc.) that make up the network's configuration.
2. Logical Network Topology - A high-level understanding of how the network operates, including how nodes join and how data is conveyed.

Several distinct logical and physical network topologies exist. Explore the standard network topologies listed below:

Point-to-Point Topology

A method to connect two network nodes—a computer, laptop, mobile device, router, hub, or switch—via a LAN cable or other data transmission media.

In a point-to-point topology, there are three possible forms of communication between the two nodes:

1. Simplex - Only one node can transfer data.
2. Half-Duplex - Both devices (nodes) can transfer data, but only one at a time.
3. Full-Duplex - The two devices (nodes) can transfer data simultaneously.

The following are examples of a point-to-point topology:

• The connection between the television and remote control.
• The connection between the air conditioner and the remote.

Mesh Topology

In a mesh topology, no central connection point exists. Each node is instead connected to at least one other node and typically to several.

Mesh topology is divided into two categories:

1. Full Mesh Topology - A direct connection between every node and every other node allows the message to travel numerous paths.
2. Partial Mesh Topology - Not all nodes are connected directly to each other in a partial mesh topology. There are fewer routes for a message to travel forth, but it is simpler to implement than a full mesh topology.

Mesh topologies are utilized when network communication reliability is crucial. Examples are the following:

• military organizations
• monitoring traffic flow, sewage treatment, and controlling street lighting
• emergency services
• utility companies that provide gas and electricity
• the Internet

Star Topology

In a star topology, all nodes are connected indirectly via one or more switches. The switch serves as the hub through which all communications pass.

The linked nodes cannot communicate if the central hub or switch goes down.

Star topologies are usually used in big organizations, like schools and businesses, where high performance is essential.

Bus Topology

Known as "line topology" or "backbone network topology," this configuration has all nodes connected by a single primary connection.

Information travels along the backbone in both directions until it reaches its destination. There are two bus topologies:

1. Linear Bus Topology -Every device is linked to a singular cable with two ends.
2. Distributed Bus Topology - All devices are linked by a single cable that splits into several portions, resulting in more than two termination points.

Bus topologies are not commonly utilized in modern networking because they are unsuitable for dealing with massive amounts of data. 

Ring Topology

Nodes are circled in a ring topology. Each device has two neighbors and can send or receive data across the ring network.

The problem with ring topology is that each node relies on the others. If one node fails, the network as a whole may fail.

There are two types of ring topology:

1. Unidirectional Ring or Collapsed Ring Topology - Permits data to be transferred in one direction, clockwise or counterclockwise.

2. Bidirectional Ring or Counter-rotating Ring Topology - An additional ring is in the opposite direction of the initial ring. It acts as a backup that allows data to continue to transmit in the network if a failure occurs.

Ring network topologies are utilized when a simple network setup is required. They work well in places that don't need fast data transfers and where the network isn't likely to grow or change. 

Tree Topology

Tree topology is also known as "star bus topology" because it combines star characteristics and linear bus topology.

There is a primary hub that links to secondary hubs, where network nodes are branched off from.

Tree topologies can be categorized as follows:

1. Bus Tree Topology -  PCs are connected to central hubs or switches, and a backbone cable handles communication throughout the tree network.
2. Cluster Tree Topology - Features a parent-child link between nodes, where the parent is the central device.
3. Spanning Tree Topology - Numerous backbone cables exist to connect the various clusters that are accessible throughout the entire computer network.

Tree topology is often used to connect multiple devices, such as printers and computers, in a home or small office.

Hybrid Topology

Two or more distinct topologies can be combined to form a hybrid topology.

The commonly used variety of topologies is Star-Bus or Star-Ring. However, you might need clarification on a hybrid topology with a tree topology.

Hybrid star-bus networks use bus trunks to connect two or more star topologies. In contrast, tree topologies are hierarchical star networks.

Most hybrid structures are found in more prominent companies where each department has its network topology that fits its needs and how it uses the network.

Wrap-Up

Nodes are essential components in computer networks, enabling seamless data flow between devices.

Understanding the different types of network nodes and network topologies allows you to design and optimize networks based on specific requirements.

Technology advancement shows a 63% global penetration rate, revealing the significance of notes in network. This will only continue to grow and connect the world more than ever.