1. A network topology refers to the way in which computers and devices are laid out in a
communication networks.
A star topology is the most common type of topology used in homes and offices. This type
of topology is where all of the computers and devices on the network connect to a central
device, thus forming a star. The central device that provides a common connection point
for nodes on the network is called a hub.
On a star network, if one of the node fails. Only that node is affected. The other nodes
continue to operate normally. If the hub fails, however, the entire network is inoperable
until the hub is repaired.
Advantages of the star topology are:
• A star topology is very easy to manage because of its simplicity in functionality.
• The problems can be easily located logically in a star topology and therefore is easy
to troubleshoot too.
• The star topology is simply in format so it is very easy to expand on a star topology.
Disadvantages of the star topology are:
• The star topology is fully dependant on the hub and the entire working of the
network depends on the hub or the switch.
• If there are many nodes and the cable is long then the network may slow down.
A star topology is best suited to be in small networks and work efficiently when there area
limited number of nodes. And has to ensure that the hub or the central node is always
working and extra security should be added to the hub at all times because it is the heart of
the network.
These are just a couples of pictures of hoe the star topology aperates: