Star Topology Advantages and Disadvantages

Basically, the term 'network topology' refers to the layout pattern of interconnections of various elements of a computer network - including the nodes, links, etc. The concept network topology is further grouped into two types - 'physical topology' (which refers to the physical design of a network) and 'logical topology' (which refers to how the data is actually transferred within the network). It is important to go through the advantages and disadvantages of different network topologies as it helps you determine which is the best bet among the available network options.

What is Star Topology?

The 'physical topology' is further classified into six different types - namely point-to-point network, ring network, mesh network, bus network, tree network and star network. Of these six, the star network is one of the most popular network topology. In this network, all the nodes are connected individually to one common hub. In other words, it is a network topology wherein transmission stations are connected to the central node in such a manner that the design resembles the shape of a star. Basically, the star topology design is quite similar to a bicycle wheel with spokes radiating from the center. In this network type, data exchange can only be carried out indirectly via the central node to which all the other nodes are connected.

Advantages and Disadvantages

As with various other types of network topologies, even star topology has its own positives and negatives which have to be taken into consideration when evaluating the feasibility of the setup. At the same time, it is also important to compare this network type with other available options when determining the feasibility.

Advantages

• It is very easy to install and manage star network topology as it is the simplest of the lot when it comes to functionality.
• It is easy to troubleshoot this network type as all computers are dependent on the central hub which invariably means that any problem which leaves the network inoperable can be traced to the central hub.
• In star topology, the data packets don't have to make their way through various nodes which makes sure that the data transfer is fast.
• At the same time, the fact that the data packets only make it through three different points ensures that the data is safe.
• As the nodes are not connected to each other, any problem in one node doesn't hamper the performance of other nodes in the network.
• Adding new machines or replacing the old ones is a lot easy in this network topology, as disruption of the entire network is not required to facilitate the same.

Disadvantages

• The foremost problem with star network topology is the fact that it is highly dependent on the functioning of central hub.
• The size of the network is dependent on how many connections can be made to the hub.
• This network type requires more cable as compared to linear bus topology which means the expenses incurred would be relatively high.
• The performance of the entire network is directly dependent on the performance of the hub. If the server is slow, it will cause the entire network to slow down.
• If one of the numerous nodes utilizes a significant portion of the central hub's processing capability, it will reflect on the performance of other nodes.

As you see most of the disadvantages of star topology revolve around the dependence of entire network on the central hub, which, in turn, means that the failure of the hub can leave the entire network inoperable. There also exists a concept of extended star topology wherein even though the network is based on physical star topology, it has one or more repeaters between the central hub and the peripheral nodes - which extend the maximum transmission distance beyond what is supported by the transmission power of the central hub. In this case, the fact that it increases the reach of the central hub is its biggest advantage, while the cost incurred on the added infrastructure can be a slight disadvantage.