Difference between network diagram and network topology?

Question

Well, the question is self-explanatory, but I just want to know the difference between a network diagram and a network topology (If there's any). I'm fairly new to network design and I have to present my current progress to judges of a networking competition, I want to make sure that I don't confuse and embarrass myself in front of my teachers, classmates and judges.

Any help is appreciated, thanks.

Answer 1

A Network Topology is the actual design of a network. A Network Diagram is a diagram (drawing) of a network.

Network Topology:

Network topology is the arrangement of the various elements (links, nodes, etc.) of a computer network. Essentially, it is the topological structure of a network and may be depicted physically or logically.

Network Diagram:

A computer network diagram is a schematic depicting the nodes and connections amongst nodes in a computer network.