What type of network topology connects devices to a central computer known as a hub?

What type of network topology connects devices to a central computer known as a hub?

• A. Star Topology
• B. Bus Topology
• C. Ring Topology
• D. Tree Topology

Answer: (A)

In networking, a star topology is characterized by the configuration in which all devices on the network are connected to a single central hub or switch. This central hub acts as a point of management and data routing for all connected devices. When one device sends data, it is sent to the hub, which then forwards it to the intended recipient. This arrangement has several advantages, such as simplifying troubleshooting since issues can often be isolated to individual devices without affecting the entire network, and making it easy to add new devices without disrupting the existing network infrastructure. Furthermore, if one connection fails, it does not impact the others, maintaining the network's overall functionality. In contrast, the other topologies work differently: bus topology uses a single central cable with all devices connected directly to it, making it less reliable if there's a failure in the main cable; ring topology connects devices in a circular manner where data travels in one direction, and failure of a single device can disrupt the entire network; tree topology combines characteristics of star and bus topologies, structuring devices in a hierarchical manner but often involves more complexity in setup and management.

In networking, a star topology is characterized by the configuration in which all devices on the network are connected to a single central hub or switch. This central hub acts as a point of management and data routing for all connected devices. When one device sends data, it is sent to the hub, which then forwards it to the intended recipient.

This arrangement has several advantages, such as simplifying troubleshooting since issues can often be isolated to individual devices without affecting the entire network, and making it easy to add new devices without disrupting the existing network infrastructure. Furthermore, if one connection fails, it does not impact the others, maintaining the network's overall functionality.

In contrast, the other topologies work differently: bus topology uses a single central cable with all devices connected directly to it, making it less reliable if there's a failure in the main cable; ring topology connects devices in a circular manner where data travels in one direction, and failure of a single device can disrupt the entire network; tree topology combines characteristics of star and bus topologies, structuring devices in a hierarchical manner but often involves more complexity in setup and management.