Star network explained
A star network is an implementation of a spoke–hub distribution paradigm in computer networks. In a star network, every host is connected to a central hub. In its simplest form, one central hub acts as a conduit to transmit messages. The star network is one of the most common computer network topologies.
Network topology
The star topology reduces the impact of a transmission line failure by independently connecting each host to the hub. Each host may thus communicate with all others by transmitting to, and receiving from, the hub. The failure of a transmission line linking any host to the hub will result in the isolation of that host from all others, but the rest of the network will be unaffected.[1]
The star configuration is commonly used with twisted pair cable and optical fiber cable. However, it can also be used with coaxial cable as in, for example, a video router.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
- If one node or its connection fails, it does not affect the other nodes.[2]
- Devices can be added or removed without disturbing the network.
- Works well under heavy load.
- Appropriate for a large network.
Disadvantages
- Expensive due to the number and length of cables needed to wire each host to the central hub.
- The central hub is a single point of failure for the network.
- The number of devices is limited by the capacity of the central hub.
Notes and References
- Web site: Star Network . TechTarget . 2014-06-24.
- Web site: Teach-ICT OCR GCSE Computing - computer network topologies, bus network, ring network, star network. teach-ict.com . https://web.archive.org/web/20151222163638/http://teach-ict.com/gcse_computing/ocr/215_communications_networking/network_topologies/miniweb/pg4.htm . 2015-12-22.
