A
local-area network (LAN) that uses a star
topology in which all
nodes are connected to a central
computer. The main advantages of a star network is that one malfunctioning node doesn't affect the rest of the network, and it's easy to add and remove nodes. The main disadvantage of star networks is that they require more cabling than other topologies, such as a bus or
ring networks. In addition, if the central computer fails, the entire
network becomes unusable.
Standard twisted-pair Ethernet uses a star topology.
For network diagrams, see Network Topology Diagrams in the Quick Reference section of Webopedia.
