CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

In a star topology, how are the devices arranged?

1. All devices connect in a circle

2. Each device connects directly to every other device

3. All devices are connected to a central device

4. There are connections based on user permissions

The correct answer is: All devices are connected to a central device

In a star topology, all devices are connected to a central device, commonly known as a hub or switch. This central device acts as a focal point for communications within the network. Each device, such as computers or printers, has a direct connection to the hub or switch, facilitating effective data transmission. The advantage of this arrangement is that if one connection fails, it does not affect the rest of the network. Only the device connected to the failed link is impacted, making troubleshooting easier and enhancing network stability. Additionally, since all data passes through the central device, it can manage and control the information flow, which can improve overall network performance and help implement security measures more effectively. In contrast, the other configurations described are either representative of different topologies (e.g., the circular connection is more aligned with a ring topology), or they do not describe the fundamental nature of a star topology at all. Thus, the correct understanding of how devices are arranged in a star topology is centered around the central connection to a hub or switch, ensuring clarity in network design and operation.