A collapsed backbone is a network structure using a central point of origin to feed switching or routing hubs. It is easy to set up and maintain, but if the central point fails, the entire network can fail. Redundant backbones can be used to prevent this.
A collapsed backbone is a type of network structure or configuration that is sometimes used in building local area networks or LANs. The configuration often includes the use of switching or routing hubs as part of the overall design, with a central point of origin providing the feed for all hubs. While it is very easy to set up and maintain, there are drawbacks to this arrangement which can lead to a complete failure of the network if that central point of origin is adversely affected.
Sometimes known as a backbone in a box or an inverted backbone, collapsed backbone uses cable connections from the point of origin to a series of hubs. The hubs in turn are connected to various destinations within the network. Data is transferred from the center through hubs to destinations, then sent back to the center of the network. When the backbone is configured correctly, this arrangement can work very efficiently, allowing you to quickly address any malfunctions at a given hub by rerouting broadcasts through the remaining hubs.
Another benefit of the collapsed spine is ease of maintenance. Since there is a single point of origin for your network, there is a single location to manage. The general configuration also allows you to easily diagnose any problems that could interfere with the operation of the network, implement any emergency interventions necessary to keep the flow of data moving and quickly resolve the problem. Because monitoring a collapsed backbone is relatively straightforward, diagnostics can often be performed that help identify potential problems and make repairs before any type of system outage occurs.
While there are a number of benefits to a collapsed backbone, one of the major culprits has to do with the failure to collapse the central point of origin for the network. If any factor interferes with that central point, the entire network can be rendered inaccessible until the problem is identified and repairs are completed. Many networks using this particular configuration will include one or more redundant backbones that are periodically upgraded to communicate with all hubs in the network, making it possible to switch functionality to a backup source while the main box at the central point is being serviced. This helps ensure that there is no loss of productivity due to equipment failure and that valuable data is also retained and easily accessible to authorized personnel.
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