Wireless Topology Assignment: Point To Point Topology (Research Paper Sample)

Wireless Topology
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Wireless Topology
Introduction
Wireless communication technology is one of the most prevalent medium of information transfer. Its preference over other mediums of information transfer accrue from the fact that it utilizes electromagnetic waves. This therefore means, communication and information transfers over the wireless medium eliminates the need for electronic conductors, wires and cables. The resultant effect is faster, effective and cheaper information transfer processes.
Examples of wireless communication devices range from Bluetooth technologies, to printers, computers and Wi-Fi technologies. A number of network typologies have been developed facilitate this wireless communication and connectivity (Bagad, 2006) Network typologies focus on the layout and links that exist between various nodes in wireless connectivity. In this paper, the focus is on the configuration typologies that exist in wireless communication, point out the limitations of each topology and an example in which the topology is utilized.
Point-to-point topology
The most basic type of network topology is the point to point topology which primarily links two nodes directly together. The distinctive factor within a point to point topology is the absence of an intervening device. This particular topology often uses directional antennas to allow for communication between two locations or devices. Bluetooth products are perfect examples of point to point network topology (Bagad, 2006). The nature of action for this devices involves a direct link between devices without the need for access points. While this form of connection is less expensive compared to other topologies such as star, its application is often limited to situations that call for temporary data sharing.
Point to point topology has a wide range of applicability ranging from industries such as security, to transportation as well as in setting up wireless internet. In wireless setup, point to point topology is essential in creating a cellular framework. In the transportation industry, the two-node connection allows for bus, train and taxi communication systems to remain in connected. The greatest challenge that comes from a point-to-point networks is that it is limited to a one to one connection.
Point to point communications are also utilized within security systems where they provide links between outdoor field cameras and control rooms. In this case, this type of topology acts as a backhaul for outdoor wireless video cameras. While the collection of the video streams is achieved through point to multipoint networks, sharing the video footage from the central location to the control room is only achievable through point to point communication.
In other words, this topology lacks any form of redundancy, a factor that can easily result in the loss of data in case of poor radio frequency link between the devices in communication. Another major challenge is the fact that it is much slower. The fact that this particular layout primarily relies on two nodes means that any interruption or destruction of a single node results in stoppage of communication and information transfer. In other words if two computers were on a network, the breakage of a single compute results in breakdown in communication. While fixing a point to point topology is fairly simple, it can be costly and time consuming.
Point to multipoint topology
The Point to multipoint topology is often preferred in in wireless communications that involve large number of end users. It is type of communication that allows for communication between a single point and a variety of other locations. Ideally, this topology is comprised of a central base that links to other subscriber stations, allowing for network access for multiple locations (Bagad, 2006). The point to multipoint topology is preferred primarily because it allows for sharing of network resources. This topology allows for a single access point to serve up to one hundred locations.
Bridges are essential in this topology to allow for multiple linkages. At the heart or core of a point to multipoint topology is a root bridge through which all data flows to all the wireless bridge clients. For effective communication and data transfer in this topology, the remote locations have to be within range and visibility of central station. (Kasera and Narang, 2005).  Obstacles such as trees, building and hills often present a great challenge for multipoint access.
Signals within a point to multipoint system is often bi-directional, meaning it can either be channelized or adhere to the time division multiple access. The applicability of this topology can be found in outdoor video surveillance systems as well as in wireless internet service providers. Looking at the wireless video-surveillance system for example, the video cameras are often linked to a wireless client device before being connected to a base station. In this case therefore, all video streams that are coming in from the field cameras are merged within the central location before being transmitted to the control room.
In an effort to increase the range and capacity of reach, base stations within this topology often adopt multiple Sector Antennas. While it is a cost effective approach in wireless connections, it does present a number of challenges in its application. The most conspicuous challenge being that with a centralized base station unit, the risk of failure is tripled in the event of a failure within this station. Multiple subscriber units are likely to be affected by any complications or issues within the root bridge.
Wireless internet service providers are also synonymous with the point to multipoint wireless communication topology. In providing internet services to its subscribers, an internet provider utilizes a point to multipoint layout to allow multiple users access to its services. Access to the internet is thus accessible from anywhere within the range that is established through a server antenna. By connecting individuals to the internet wirelessly, this type of communication eliminates the need for digital subscriber lines or cables. The other major advantage of the application of this topology in internet service provision is that it guarantees high speed data access and exchange.
In a world where high speeds of connectivity are essential at both individual and organizational levels, coupled by the adoption of wireless broadband connectivity as an instrumental medium of communication, the point to multipoint topology offers a robust and efficient solution. Its capacity to allow for high speed connectivity goes a long way in enhancing the communication process. Another downside of this wireless communication topology is that with a directional antenna, communication between nodes is impossible since interaction is limited to point and multipoint nodes.
Multi-point to point topology
The delivery of content over the internet has brought about the need for connections beyond point to point topology. In other words, it is becoming commonplace for single clients to access and retrieve inform...