Star Topology: Definition, Practices, and Importance
Star topology, often known as a star network, is one of the most typical network configurations. In this design, each node is linked to a hub, switch, or computer that serves as the hub for the whole network. The main network device serves as a server, and the other network nodes function as clients. Depending on the network card type in each computer, a coaxial or RJ-45 network cable is utilized in a star topology configuration.
Technically, a star topology can link an unlimited number of computers. However, when more computers are linked, network performance might decline, slowing down network speeds.
In this article, we will discuss the following topics regarding star topology?
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What is Star Topology?
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How does Star Topology work?
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What are the best practices of Star Topology?
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What are the advantages of Star Topology?
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What are the disadvantages of Star Topology?
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How much does a Star Topology cost?
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What is the importance of Star Topology in LAN?
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Where should firewalls be placed in a network topology?
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Does star topology have good security?
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What is the difference between Star Topology and Bus Topology?
What is Star Topology?
Each device is connected to a central hub in a network structure called a star topology, sometimes referred to as a star network. Star topology is by far the most popular network topology and one of the most used computer network setups. In star topology network configuration, a star-shaped icon represents every device connected to a central network device.
In contrast to mesh topology, a device in a star topology must use a hub to interact with the other devices; it cannot do so directly. The core network device acts as a server, while the peripheral devices act as clients. The RJ-45 or coaxial cable is utilized in a star topology, depending on the type of network card that has been placed in each machine. Star topology is fairly simple and easy to implement in a computer network, similar to a Bus Topology.
Numerous star topology instances are found in real-world settings, including airports, hospitals, banks, and educational institutions. Instead of a hub, a switch is used as the central device. To link the client, servers, and another network to the central hub, patch cables are utilized. In a star topology, every linked device is totally dependent on the central device; if the central device has any issues, communication throughout the whole computer network breaks down.
Figure 1. Star Topology
You may readily comprehend star topology by referring to the example of star topology in the preceding graphic. As you can see, the hub serves as a focal point and connects every other node including clients, servers, and other networks to it. Each node in this figure has a direct point-to-point connection to the hub, but none of the nodes are capable of direct communication with one another. Therefore, each communication must transit through this central device before it reaches its destination (Hub or Switch).
How Does Star Topology Work?
Star topology's operation may be understood in a relatively straightforward manner. In this form of network structure, nodes can only connect with one another through a central device that is part of the network; direct communication between nodes is not possible. Both receiving and delivering messages from the sender are handled by this central device, which might be a Passive Hub, Active Hub, or Switch. In each situation, the method for operating the central device is different. As a result, Star Topology is divided into the following three groups based on its mode of operation:
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Passive Star Topology
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Active Star Topology
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Star Topology Using Switch
However, in each of the cases, the star topology arrangement would be the same. But each is unique according to its operating system. An explanation of each is provided below.
- Passive Star Topology: A Passive Hub, the central component of a network, is used to construct a Passive Star Topology. In a computer network, this hub device receives the signal from the sender and transmits it to other stations. The signal can be let to travel through a passive Hub without any interference. In other words, the Passive Hub is unable to produce or analyze the communication signals again. If you use a passive hub to create a star network, the hub will serve as the central device that accepts data messages from senders and distributes them to all associated nodes. All connected nodes accept destination address checks after receiving the data message. If the destination address and the address of a Node match, the matching Node stores the message. If the destination address and the address of a Node do not match, the Node discards the data message. Large computer networks and long-distance networks should not use this type of network.
Figure 2. Passive Star Topology
- Active Star Topology: In the active star architecture, there is an Active Hub that serves as the center device. Additional tasks are carried out by this Hub in addition to transmitting the communication signals. In contrast to Passive Hub, Active Hub has the ability to reprocess or regenerate communication signals. It transmits the updated sender communication signals to all other nodes in the computer network after regenerating them. So an Active Hub also functions as a Repeater. It regenerates the signal communication that affects the communication signal's intensity. The rest of Active Hub's operational procedures are identical to those of Passive Hub. Using Active Hub to build a star network makes it more suited for networks with more nodes and longer cable runs.
Figure 3. Active Star Topology
- Star Topology Using Switch: Hub can be replaced with a Switch as the central device in a star design. Switcher Star Network Topology is another name for the star network created with Switch. The central component in this kind of network is an intelligent device (Switch), not an Active Hub or Passive Hub. A Switch has many capabilities as an Intelligent Hub but is unable to send communication signals. After reading the data message's destination address and carrying out a few further tasks, the switch sends the data message to the specified recipient.
- Routing
- Bridging
- Processing or regeneration of the signal
- Network management A Switch receives the data message from the sender in a manner similar to what a Hub does. But instead of broadcasting the data message as soon as it is received, it first verifies the target address before sending the message to that specific location. Unicast is the name for this style of broadcasting. A switch is an intelligent device in terms of destination recognition, routing, and regeneration. As a result, utilizing Switch to design star topology networks should be your first option.
Figure 4. Star Topology with Switch
What are the Applications of Star Topology?
Star topology has several applications in networking. Due to its simple availability, you may discover its applications everywhere around you. However, the following are some applications of star topology:
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This architecture is typically used in educational institutions' computer laboratories to link together the lab's nodes.
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This Network Topology clearly demonstrates how our home networks are set up.
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The banking industry is another use for star topology, as all banking users are linked to one another using this kind of topology.
What are the Advantages of Star Topology?
There are various benefits of star topology that are worth taking into account while the setup process is underway, including the following:
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Mistake Tolerance: When one node in a star topology suffers from a NIC failure or a broken cable, just that one node is impacted. Users benefit from increased network resilience since each device connects separately to the central core. One cable connects the nodes to one another. However, this structure could be more expensive than other plans. However, the benefits typically outweigh the drawbacks. The only method to eliminate all nodes simultaneously is to compromise with the central core. It is a secure network that is not widely accessible to the general public. Additionally, any size of organization may use this network to serve its needs.
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Connecting several sorts of devices: Users are able to connect several sorts of devices using the star topology. If you have a hub or switch that can forward the data packet to many equipment kinds, this network is the greatest choice in terms of the range of applications. Most organizations also connect PCs to various printers and other stations using star topology. Through a server that is accessible and connected to the main hub, you may extend the reach of each connected device in a star topology. Furthermore, until the equipment is compatible with the software or hardware of the central hub and the network connection you are using, you may swiftly connect a whole workplace with this arrangement.
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Scalability: A new device might be added to the network for a variety of reasons. A new device is easily added to a network using a star topology. You only need to use a cable to connect the new gadget to the central core in order to do that. When you need to use a single core to link several devices, it gives you an edge. It enables you to continue to reap the rewards of this structure by enabling you to grow the network by adding more devices. As devices are added to or deleted from the central device, the entire network is dependent on it. Because they can replace a broken component, these networks are very scalable and aid in maintaining your production levels.
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Little likelihood of data collisions: Data collisions are less likely with star topology since each node is connected to the central core via its own cable. Additionally, it has the capacity to handle data collisions and avoid creating bottlenecks. This indicates that this network architecture has unusually high-performance levels when compared to other network topologies. But in other circumstances, it could operate slowly because of heavy traffic.
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Keeps away from point-to-point connections: Fast communication is maintained while a star topology streamlines the process. However, you could obtain a high level of dependability with alternative topologies. It provides additional versatility, and you may implement it in your business with assurance. Additionally, since the central hub is there, you do not need to worry about your devices talking with one another. As a result, networks of nearly any size readily utilize the star topology network and benefit from it. Users are given point-based connections and access to unicast communication, which enables a safe channel for sending data packets. Additionally, there is no chance of signal reflection with this type of network. Therefore, avoiding point-to-point connections is beneficial.
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Multiple Strategies: There are several ways you may use deploying star topology. When creating a star topology network, you can choose to employ an active hub, a passive hub, or a switch. A passive hub does not require the modification time of data packets if that is what you choose. Additionally, in the star topology network created with the passive hub, signals move through without any interruption. A network created utilizing an active hub performs extra tasks that enable it to serve as a repeater in addition to its essential core responsibilities. The data message will be transmitted to the appropriate recipient as the switch reads the destination address of the data packets in a star topology network.
What are the Disadvantages of Star Topology?
Star topology provides a number of advantages, but it has several drawbacks listed below:
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A critical core failure: In a star topology, the hub or switch at the center, which is the most crucial node in the network, controls the whole system. The entire system is affected if the central core malfunctions, and you won't be able to access the computer network either. Even if you can operate offline in this scenario, there's a probability that you'll quickly restrict the prospects for cooperation. You need to replace the complete hub if a breakdown occurs for any reason; this is a crucial suggestion.
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Expensive: Installing and extending a star topology is highly expensive since it requires cabling for the systems or devices. The fact that this architecture requires more connections, cables, and Hubs or Switches makes it the most costly. Each device in a star topology network has to be directly linked to the main hub. But its construction is far more dependable. The major reason why some small firms search for alternatives for this network is that it is the most expensive to have this architecture. Although more expensive, it improves network productivity and speeds up the process of finding maintenance problems, which leads to cost savings. Additionally, there is often less downtime because all devices are connected by cables, therefore in order to unplug one from the network, you must somehow compromise the cable.
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Need for more equipment: A central core, which is required for star topology to function, might be a switch or a hub. You need a central core for each star if you need to run many stars. This installation increases costs and introduces a number of vulnerabilities for some designs. A multi-star installation's primary communication tool is changed by removing the primary hub. All systems would still be able to communicate with one another even without access to a common database for cooperation.
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Mobile device attachment is difficult: Even while the star topology makes adding more devices straightforward, connecting a smartphone or other mobile device might be challenging. Some computers do not offer the ability to join this network, as well. The majority of the central hub lacks a port that would enable this system to use the internet. So, to stay online, you may rely on Wi-Fi or a cellular connection. Therefore, it would be quite challenging to collaborate on projects if you have employees working from mobile or distant offices. The same problems that people who utilize a cable connection to communicate with outside of your organization will be experienced with others who attempt to connect to your LAN without inside access.
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Affects mobility: Despite the availability of wireless star topology systems in current times, the majority of people still rely on wired connections. The short length of the cable limits people's movement when they utilize a wired connection for their network. They won't be able to bring their workstations with them and continue to be productive. Additionally, if they want to print something over the network, they must leave their workstation since they are limited to a certain distance from the central hub, which over time lowers production levels.
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Inadequate data transfer speeds: A network with a high load should avoid using wireless star architecture due to its slow data transmission rate. If you want a network with the ability to handle a large amount of traffic, you should go for a wired star topology network. With WLAN, there is an increasing danger of bottleneck, and it goes slowly. You must make manual settings if you wish to put restrictions on the network. That implies that you are spending more time on the system and less time working on your new project. Additionally, pinpointing and diagnosing a wireless network issue might be challenging.
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Damage-prone cables: It is possible for damage to occur to the cable or wire used to build a star topology system. A cable must pass through walls, under floors, or other obstructions in order to better reach the target workstations or peripherals. Additionally, when the building needs LAN (Local Area Network) installation work on the exterior, it may become vulnerable due to shifting weather patterns or wildlife influences. These problems reduce the dependability of some star topology networks. Even while accidents occasionally occur, you prevent these problems by enclosing the wires in a protective barrier.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
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| Mistake Tolerance | A critical core failure |
| Connecting several sorts of devices | Expensive |
| Scalability | Need for more equipment |
| Little likelihood of data collisions | Mobile device attachment is difficult/Affects mobility |
| Keeps away from point-to-point connections | Inadequate data transfer speeds |
| Multiple Strategies | Damage-prone cables |
Table 2. Advantages & Disadvantages of Star Topology
What is the Importance of Star Topology in LAN?
Star topology is the most common method of connecting computers in a workgroup or departmental LAN. The fact that a single computer or cable failure won't take down the entire LAN is one benefit of the star topology. Additionally, this design centralizes networking hardware, which over time can save costs by simplifying network management.
Where should Firewalls be Placed in a Network Topology?
The first line of protection against external threats to the networks, computer systems, and sensitive data of your company is often a network firewall. The risk of insider assaults can be decreased by using firewalls to divide the internal networks of your firm. Firewalls are frequently positioned near a network's edge. An external interface is one that is located outside of the network, while an internal interface is one that is located inside the firewall.
Does Star Topology Have Good Security?
Star Topology has good security because communication between two devices is completely separate from that of other devices, it is very dependable. Signal reflection is not possible in it. Point-to-point connections and unicast communication further contribute to its security.
What is the Difference Between Star Topology and Bus Topology?
The star and bus topologies differ in a number of ways. Below you can find all the differences between bus topology and star topology:
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In a network, all nodes connected to a single central hub or switch create a star topology. A bus topology is a network topology in which every device is linked to one main line.
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If the central core of a star topology system fails, the entire system suffers, and even you are unable to access the computer network. If a network cable breaks in a Bus topology, the entire network will likewise crash.
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In a star architecture, the central hub determines how well the network performs and handles heavy traffic. With a Bus topology, the network performance worsens when there is a lot of traffic on it. It cannot effectively handle a high volume of traffic as a result.
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The star topology excludes any terminator. The terminators are a part of the bus topology at both ends of the network.
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The cost of implementing star topology is considerable due to the requirement for additional cables and a central hub for connecting. The cost of a bus topology is lower than that of a star topology.
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The speed of data transmission is high with star topology. A bus topology transmits data at a slower rate than a star topology.
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A star architecture's central hub serves as the communication channel for the nodes. After the communication from the sender reaches the central hub, it is relayed to the receiving node. In a star topology, data transmission operates differently. In a bus topology, the recipient receives the message sent by the sender.
| Star Topology | Bus Topology | |
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| Architecture | All nodes connected to a single central hub or switch | Every device is linked to one main line |
| Single point of failure | The central core of a star topology system | Network cable |
| Performance | The central hub determines how well the network performs and handles heavy traffic | Cannot effectively handle a high volume of traffic |
| Terminator | Not Used | Part of the bus topology at both ends of the network |
| Cost | Expensive | Lower |
| Speed | High | Slower |
Table 2. Star Topology vs Bus Topology