Introduction to Networking

3.1. Characteristics

Characteristics:

1. Most common topology in modern LANs.

2. Centralized management via the switch/hub.

 Advantages: It's highly reliable because the failure of one device or cable doesn't affect the rest of the network. It's easy to add or remove devices, and troubleshooting is simpler since you can isolate problems to a single connection.

 Disadvantages: It requires a lot of cable, which can increase cost. The central hub is a single point of failure; if it fails, the entire network becomes inoperative.