Which topology connects all devices to a single central hub?

In a star topology, all devices are connected to a central hub or switch. This central hub acts as a repeater for the data flow, allowing communication between devices on the network. One of the key advantages of this configuration is that if one connection fails, it does not affect the rest of the network, as each device has a dedicated point of connection to the hub. Additionally, this setup simplifies the addition or removal of devices, which can be done without disrupting the network. It also allows for better management and troubleshooting, as network issues can often be isolated to individual connections rather than impacting the entire network.

In contrast, other topologies have different structural characteristics. For example, in a ring topology, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a closed loop but lacking a single central point. The bus topology relies on a single central cable or "bus" to connect all devices, which can lead to issues if that main line fails. Meanwhile, a mesh topology involves multiple connections between devices, providing redundancy and reliability but requiring more cabling and complexity. Understanding these differences highlights the unique benefits of the star topology in network design.