Final answer:
An extended star topology is a network topology where nodes are connected to a central hub or switch. It allows for additional hubs or switches to be added, creating multiple levels of hierarchy. Advantages include centralized management, redundancy, and scalability.
Step-by-step explanation:
An extended star topology is a type of network topology where each node in the network is connected to a central hub or switch. In this topology, the central hub or switch acts as a central point of communication, and all nodes communicate with each other through this central point. Unlike a traditional star topology, where nodes are connected directly to the central hub, an extended star topology allows for additional hubs or switches to be added, creating multiple levels of hierarchy.
For example, in a large organization with multiple departments, each department may have its own switch as a sub-hub, which is then connected to a central hub at the main office. This extended star topology provides a scalable and flexible network architecture, allowing for easy expansion and management of the network.
Some advantages of an extended star topology include:
- Centralized management: With a central hub or switch, it becomes easier to monitor and manage the network.
- Redundancy: If one sub-hub fails, the rest of the network can still function because they are not directly connected to each other.
- Scalability: Additional hubs or switches can be added to accommodate the growth of the network.