Question

Difficulty: HardNetwork Topologies and Types

A logistics enterprise is deploying network infrastructure to interconnect eight distribution centers distributed across a single metropolitan metropolitan region to a primary data center hub. The network requires low-latency Ethernet connectivity across the city footprint. Furthermore, the physical network design must maintain full node connectivity if any single point-to-point link between adjacent sites is severed, while minimizing physical cabling costs by avoiding dedicated links between every pair of facilities. Which network type and physical topology combination best satisfies these design requirements?

  1. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) deployed in a ring topologyAnswer
  2. B
    Wide Area Network (WAN) deployed in a star topology
  3. C
    Campus Area Network (CAN) deployed in a bus topology
  4. D
    Storage Area Network (SAN) deployed in a full mesh topology

Answer

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) deployed in a ring topology
A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) covers a city-wide geographic scope, matching the metropolitan distribution center locations. A ring topology provides redundant counter-rotating or fault-tolerant paths, allowing traffic to be rerouted in the opposite direction if a single physical fiber link breaks, satisfying both fault-tolerance and cost constraints without requiring a full mesh.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the geographic scope requirements
The scenario specifies interconnecting facilities spread across a single metropolitan area, which corresponds to a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN).
Geographic scope determines the network classification (LAN vs CAN vs MAN vs WAN).
2
Analyze the physical redundancy and efficiency requirements
The design must withstand a single link cut without using dedicated point-to-point links between every node pair.
A full mesh topology provides link redundancy but requires n(n1)/2n(n-1)/2 links, whereas a dual-ring topology provides single-fault tolerance efficiently across a geographic ring path.
3
Synthesize the correct network classification and physical layout
Combining MAN classification with a ring topology fulfills both the geographic footprint and fault-tolerance constraints.
A MAN ring topology provides city-wide reach and resilient traffic rerouting during a link disruption.

Key Concept

Geographic Network Classifications and Physical Topologies
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