Which network topology consists of a central hub through which all nodes communicate?

In a star topology, a central hub acts as the main point of communication for all devices (or nodes) on the network. Each node connects directly to the hub, which forwards data packets between them. This structure allows for straightforward network management and easy addition or removal of nodes without disrupting the entire network.

The design of a star topology inherently minimizes the risk of network failure; if one connection between a node and the hub fails, the other nodes remain unaffected, ensuring continuous operation. This topology is commonly used in both home networks and larger organizational networks due to its scalability and reliability.

In contrast, the other topologies mentioned function differently. A mesh topology connects each node to multiple other nodes for redundancy and reliability but does not rely on a single central hub. A bus topology utilizes a single central cable, or bus, that all devices share, which can lead to collisions and issues if the bus fails. Lastly, a ring topology connects devices in a circular fashion, where each device communicates with two other nodes, which can result in delays and challenges if any one node fails.

The specific structure and efficiency of the star topology make it the correct answer for a network that uses a central hub for communication.