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Collapsed Backbone

Definition - What does Collapsed Backbone mean?

A collapsed backbone is a large-scale and centralized network topology comprised of multiple local area networks (LAN).

Collapsed backbones use star or rooted tree topology and are best suited to virtual network architectures with peer-to-peer (P2P) network communication.

A collapsed backbone is also known as a backbone-in-a-box or inverted backbone.

Techopedia explains Collapsed Backbone

Network backbones are distributed or collapsed. Traditional LANs connect via distributed backbone cables. Collapsed backbones use high-speed backplane switches to connect virtual Point-to-Point (PPP) LAN networks.

Collapsed backbone advantages include:

  • Requires fewer devices
  • Eliminates backbone cabling installation costs
  • Provides scaled station bandwidth
  • Provides tightly centralized equipment administration

Collapsed backbone disadvantages include:

  • Requires extra cabling

  • Requires more expensive devices
  • Limited distance capabilities
  • Redundancy
  • Not feasible for multiple buildings
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