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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.<ref>Template:Citation</ref> The star network is one of the most common computer network topologies.
NetworkEdit
The hub and hosts, and the transmission lines between them, form a graph with the topology of a star. Data on a star network passes through the hub before continuing to its destination. The hub manages and controls all functions of the network. It also acts as a repeater for the data flow. In a typical network the hub can be a network switch, Ethernet hub, wireless access point or a router
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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 disadvantagesEdit
AdvantagesEdit
- If one node or its connection fails, it does not affect the other nodes.<ref name="teach-ict.com">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
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- Devices can be added or removed without disturbing the network.
- Works well under heavy load.
- Appropriate for a large network.
DisadvantagesEdit
- Expensive due to the number and length of cables needed to wire each host to the central hub.<ref name="teach-ict.com" />
- The central hub is a single point of failure for the network.
- Each device needs a separate cable connection to the central hub, leading to higher cable usage.
- The number of devices is limited by the capacity of the central hub.