Explain Star Network Topology With Advantages And Disadvantages
Star Topology
Star Topology is the most popular and widely used network topology in local area networks. In star topology, all computers are connected with a central device known as HUB or Switch. Now-a-days Hubs are often replaced by Fast Network Switches. The sender computer sends data to the hub. The hub sends it to the destination computer. So, all data communication is managed through HUB or Switch. |
| What is Star topology? Advantages and Disadvantages of star topology |
Note: The major difference between a Networking Hub and Networking Switch is that HUB sends data to all computers, and the destination computer will accept it while other computers will not. On the other hand, Switch sends data only to the destination computer. Therefore, switch can reduce network traffic and hence provides fast transmission speed.
Advantages of Star Network Topology
1. Star Network Topology Supports Easy Installation and maintenance
It is easy to maintain network. That is why it is so popular.2. Star Topology Supports Adding or removing computers easily
Adding or removing computers can be done without disturbing the network. We connect the new computer with the HUB by means of a networking cable. One end of the cable (RJ 45 connector) is inserted in computer’s Network Interface Card and the other end (RJ 45 connector) is plugged into the HUB, and that’s it.3. Star Topology for Easy Fault Diagnosis
In a star network topology, finding faults is easy. If a computer is no more connected with your network, you can check its cable and connectors or network settings in its Operating system.4. Star Network Topology Supports Network Reliability
Single computer failure will not disturb whole network, since all other computers are connected with separate links ( wires ) to HUB. Definitely, they will work fine. Therefore, only the faulty computer will not be able to communicate with other computers in the Local Area Network.5. Star Network Topology for Better performance
Star topology can prevents the passing of data through an excessive number of nodes. By using a Switch, at most, 3 devices and 2 links are involved in any communication between any two devices.6. Device Isolation
Each device is separately connected to HUB or Switch and is isolated. This is why each device works independently.
Disadvantages of Star Network Topology
1. Failure of central HUB
In star network topology, data communication depends on HUB. If central hub fails, then whole network fails.2. A Lot of Cable is required
Since each computer will be connected with HUB by means of a separate networking wire, star network topology needs more communication cable to connect computers.3. Star Topology is More Expensive
It is more expensive due to more wires. Since every node in a star network topology is connected with HUB through a separate networking wire, therefore, a lot of wires are needed for constructing and maintaining a star network topology
