star topology

1) star topology

In this topology, each and every device (computer) has its own cable switch, multiple point repeaters, or sometime multiple access point (MAU).Data is passed through the hub, repeater, or switch to reach other device or network.

                Ethernet over unshielded twisted pair (up to), whether it is 10baset, 100baset, or gigabit, all use a star topology.

                It is most common in network. This is mainly because it is easy to troubleshoot and configure. If a single wire or cable or single port on a hub or switch goes bad/or failure, it will not bring down the network. Only the failure nodes will go down, which prevents the huge impact on the network.

Unless the entire hub, or switch fails, in which case, the whole lan goes down. However because a star topology involves a central hub or switch as well as a lot of cabling. It costs is more to implement.

Benefits

1.       Easy to troubleshoot and configure.

2.       A single wire/device or cable failure will not bring down the network.

Disadvantage

1.       Lots of cabling is required.

2.       If a hub fails, the entire section of the network fails with it.