Content

| 1.2 |  | Network Configuration Documentation |
| 1.2.3 |  | Identifying the components of a topology diagram |

A topology diagram is a graphical representation of a network. A topology diagram illustrates how each device in a network is connected, while also detailing the aspects of its logical architecture. Topology diagrams share many of the same components as their network configuration table counterparts.

Each network device should be represented on the diagram with consistent notation or a graphical symbol. Also, each logical and physical connection should be represented using a simple line or some other appropriate symbol. At a minimum, most topology diagrams include illustrations of all devices and how they are connected.

Many topologies also include network cloud symbols. A labeled cloud symbol is often employed to represent entities that are either outside the autonomous control of the network or outside the scope of the topology diagram. The cloud symbols are placeholders signifying that a network, or collection of networks, exists. It is not particularly relevant to the diagram to know anything specifically about those networks.

Although the components of a topology diagram can be restricted to a particular layer of the TCP/IP model, most often they are a combination of the most important components of several logical layers. To illustrate the important components at the network layer of the TCP/IP layer, IP addresses, subnet masks, and routing protocols might be included.

Some topologies are informal hand-drawn sketches, while others are more elaborate, using detailed symbols, multiple colors, and different ways to view them. The latter are typically created using graphics applications that vary in functionality. While some applications can be used as a solution to manually create a network diagram, others can automatically create and maintain a topology of an existing network.

Figure is an example of a topology diagram including the device name, interface name, IP address, and routing protocols. Figure is an example of a topology diagram including the device name, interface name, and IP address.