A tree topology consists of bus and star topologies framed in a common network. The tree like structure of this network allows the colleges, schools, universities and other institutions to maintain their own network as a branch of a bigger network through which they can maximize their area of access to the network. This type of network topology is most suitable for such networks which are widely spread and divided into many branches.
On tree topology the hubs of each smaller topologies are connected to the central hub that controls the entire network. However, some nodes can be directly connected to the central hub.

Tree topology

Advantages of tree topology

• It is possible to form a point to point connection with tree topology.
• All the computers can access other computers which are in other larger and immediate networks.
• Tree topology is best suited for branched out networks.

Disadvantages of tree topology

• In this topology, the length of the network depends on the type of cable utilized to form the network.
• The entire tree topology would fail if the central trunk fails as it forms the backbone of the network.
• The tree topology is comparatively more complex than the bus and star topologies. If it gets bigger, it would be difficult to configure and manage it.
• It is expensive as more hubs and cables are required to install the network.