What type of topology connects all devices to a single central hub?

The type of topology that connects all devices to a single central hub is known as star topology. In this arrangement, each device, such as computers and printers, is connected directly to a central hub or switch. This central hub serves as a conduit to manage data traffic between the connected devices.

One of the primary advantages of star topology is its robust nature; if one connection fails, it does not impact the entire network, allowing other devices to continue communicating without interruption. Additionally, it simplifies network management and troubleshooting since the central hub can be easily monitored, and problems isolated to single connections can be addressed without affecting the whole network.

In contrast, other topologies function differently: mesh topology involves multiple connections between devices for redundancy and reliability; bus topology connects all devices along a single cable, which can create issues if the cable fails; and ring topology connects devices in a circular fashion, where data travels in one direction and a failure in any one connection can disrupt the entire network. These characteristics highlight why star topology is favored for many network configurations, particularly in environments where reliability and manageability are critical.