In networking, mesh vs star topology are two common configurations. Mesh topology provides high redundancy and reliability by connecting every device to each other, while star topology connects devices through a central hub or switch. This guide breaks down their differences and ideal use cases in network design.
Mesh Topology | Star Topology |
---|---|
Each node has conneced through a dedicated link | nodes are connected through a cental device called hub |
Network system will not demaged if one node fails | If hub is demaged /corrupted then the entire network system will be failure |
Complex design | Simple |
Expensive | Cheaper |
Difficult installation and reconfiguration | Easy installation and reconfiguration |
High data security | less data security |
Commonly used for WAN | Commonly used for LAN |
Formula for numbers of cable : N ∗ ( N − 1 ) 2 , where N is the number of nodes. | Formula for numbers of cable : N , where N is the number of nodes. |
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Mesh Vs Star Topology |
FAQs
What is Mesh Topology?
In Mesh topology, every device in the network is connected to every other device, creating multiple paths for data transmission. This results in a highly redundant and fault-tolerant network.
What is Star Topology?
In Star topology, all devices are connected to a central device, typically a hub or a switch. Communication occurs through this central device, and if one device fails, it does not affect the rest of the network.
What are the advantages of Mesh Topology?
– High fault tolerance due to multiple redundant paths.
– Reliability: If one link fails, there are alternative routes for data.
– Scalable, allowing easy addition of new devices without affecting the network’s performance.
What are the advantages of Star Topology?
– Simple to set up and manage.
– Easy to add new devices without disturbing the rest of the network.
– If one device fails, it does not affect others, except for communication through the central hub.
Which topology is more fault-tolerant, Mesh or Star?
Mesh topology is more fault-tolerant because there are multiple paths between devices. If one connection fails, data can still be routed through other paths. In contrast, Star topology relies on a single central device, and its failure could bring down the entire network.
Which topology is easier to set up, Mesh or Star?
Star topology is easier to set up because it requires fewer connections and uses a central hub or switch. Mesh topology, on the other hand, requires more cabling and complex configurations to connect all devices to each other.
Which topology is more scalable, Mesh or Star?
Star topology is generally more scalable because it allows easy addition of new devices by simply connecting them to the central hub or switch. In Mesh topology, adding new devices increases the number of connections required exponentially, making it less scalable.
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