Star topologies

Any device connected to a network is referred to as a node. All nodes are connected to the network either by wire or wirelessly.

A network’s topology is the arrangement, or pattern, in which all nodes on a network are connected together.

A network where each node is connected to a central switch

A network where each node is directly connected to all other nodes.

Star topologies are used in many networks, large and small.

In a star topology all nodes indirectly connect to each other through one or more switches. The switch acts as a central point through which all communications are passed.

Large networks using a star topology are usually controlled by one or more servers.

the client-server model usually uses a star topology.

• each node is separately connected, therefore a failure of one node or its link, (transmission media), does not affect any other nodes • new nodes can be added to the network simply by connecting them to the switch • star networks tend to have higher performance as a message is passed on to its intended recipient only

• the whole network fails if the switch fails as no node can communicate • a wired star topology requires plenty of cable - in a large network this can be expensive

Star topologies tend to be found in large organisations, such as educational establishments and businesses, where high performance is a must.

They are also found in home networks, especially those that are wireless. In this case, a router with a wireless access point (WAP) provides the central connection for all nodes.